Activity and recreation Volunteer

Activity & Recreation Volunteer Overview / Purpose

The Activity & Recreation Volunteer assists staff in facilitating engaging recreational activities that promote social interaction, cognitive stimulation, and enjoyment for members living with dementia.

Meaningful activities help improve mood, reduce anxiety, and encourage social engagement among members. Volunteers help ensure activities run smoothly and that each member feels included and supported.

• Typically 2–4 hours per volunteer shift
• Weekly or scheduled volunteer days
• Ongoing or semester-based for interns

• Assist staff with setting up activity materials
• Help facilitate games such as balloon toss, tabletop bowling, or floor bowling
• Encourage members to participate in activities
• Provide one‑on‑one assistance to members during activities
• Help distribute and collect activity supplies
• Assist with cleanup after activities
• Help reset the room for the next activity

• Friendly and patient personality
• Comfortable interacting with older adults
• Interest in recreation, social work, psychology, or healthcare is helpful but not required

• First hand experience in dementia care and activity programming
• Opportunity to build communication and leadership skills
• Community service hours or internship experience
• Experience working in a nonprofit care environment

• Attend volunteer orientation and training
• Follow activity and safety guidelines
• Adhere to dress code and professional conduct standards
• Complete any required volunteer screening process

Friendship Center Adult Day Center Montecito