Wellness, Life Skills Recreation Specialist

Position Overview

The YWCA of Binghamton/Broome County is committed to the elimination of racism and the empowerment of women and children.

The YWCA of Binghamton/Broome County seeks to hire a full‑time Wellness, Life Skills, & Recreation Specialist for its supportive housing programs. YWCA housing sites serve individuals and families experiencing homelessness, including seniors and individuals with physical or mental health conditions.

This position is responsible for developing and delivering wellness, recreational, and life skills programming that promotes independence, reduces social isolation, and improves overall quality of life for tenants. The Specialist works collaboratively as part of the supportive housing team to empower residents through education, engagement, and skill‑building opportunities tailored to individual and group needs.

• Develop, coordinate, and facilitate regular programming that addresses social isolation, healthy eating, physical activity, and overall wellness.
• Provide instruction in life skills areas including financial literacy, computer skills, meal preparation, kitchen safety, and other educational topics based on tenant needs and interests.
• Design and lead group activities and workshops tailored to the frail/elderly population and individuals with chronic health conditions.
• Assess tenant interests and needs to guide program development and ensure relevance.

• Encourage tenant participation and foster a positive, inclusive community environment.
• Support special events, health initiatives, and community‑building activities.

• Provide direction, training, and supervision to the Wellness & Recreation Assistant.
• Collaborate with case management and residential staff to support tenant goals and service plans.

• Maintain accurate records of programming, attendance, and outcomes as required by agency and funder guidelines.

• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and agency initiatives as required.
• Maintain flexibility to adjust schedule and programming based on tenant needs and program demands.

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Recreation, Health Education, Gerontology, or related field preferred.

• Minimum of 1–2 years of experience working with elderly, disabled, or homeless populations preferred.
• Experience facilitating group activities, workshops, or educational programming.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage diverse populations.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of wellness, nutrition, and life skills education preferred.
• Basic computer skills required.
• Valid NYS Driver’s License preferred.

• Resident‑Centered Engagement – Ability to engage tenants in a respectful, inclusive, and empowering manner that supports participation and community building.
• Program Development & Facilitation – Ability to design and deliver effective programming tailored to diverse populations, including seniors and individuals with health‑related challenges.
• Collaboration & Teamwork – Ability to work collaboratively with case managers, residential staff, and leadership to support tenant success.
• Communication Skills – Strong verbal and interpersonal communication skills to effectively engage individuals and groups.
• Adaptability & Responsiveness – Ability to adjust programming and approach based on tenant needs, interests, and changing program demands.
• Documentation & Accountability – Ability to maintain accurate records and meet agency and funder requirements.

This position operates within supportive housing environments serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness, including seniors and individuals with physical or mental health conditions.

• Regular interaction with tenants in varying stages of stability and wellness.
• Ability to facilitate group programming and activities.
• Flexibility to adjust schedule and programming based on tenant…