Activity Leader

Main Purpose & Function
Located at the Gathering Place, 609 Helmcken St. the Activity Leaders will plan, implement and evaluate a variety of cultural, recreational, educational and social activities for community members.  Activities will cater to a variety of age groups and varying levels of participant ability.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• To organize, implement, and actively participate in Indigenous programming for Downtown South residents, drawing on lived experience and/or Indigenous identity to ensure programming is culturally relevant and grounded.
• To build relationships with Indigenous patrons and community partners in support of culturally relevant programming, drawing on personal knowledge, lived experience, and/or Indigenous identity.
• To organize, implement, and actively participate in Indigenous programming for Downtown South residents; lived experience and/or knowledge of Indigenous cultures, protocols, and community is an asset.
• To organize, implement, and actively participate in Indigenous programming and cultural activities for Downtown South residents.
• Leads group and provides basic skill instruction in a variety of activities, encouraging centre clients to participate and develop associated social skills.
• Assists recreation staff in planning, promoting, implementing and supervising drop-in programs and special events.
• Assists in planning the details of approved programs and activities.
• To stimulate active participation of community members.
• To initiate, organize, and lead regular trips, including overnight camping trips and special events.
• To prepare and distribute publicity to promote park activities.
• To provide information and referrals to patrons regarding community services and resources.
• To ensure that centre equipment and facilities are maintained
• To deal effectively with problem situations, including emergencies, which may entail administering First Aid, and liaising wit ambulance and police services.
• Monitors client behaviour and ensures the centre's rules and standards of conduct are being observed and advises of same; provides encouragement and support to clients in need and works with individuals in modifying their conduct to meet the centre's required standards; refers problems to a supervisor or security staff and documents same.
• Sets up equipment and furniture for programs and checks that equipment is in good working order, informing supervisor when repairs are required.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Completion of Grade 10 combined with some related experience working with similar client groups or in the recreation activities related to the work assigned
• Related knowledge in Creative Arts and/or Recreation is an asset 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrated ability to develop, coordinate and implement a wide range of activities (recreational, educational, social and cultural) for people of various ages and diverse needs and backgrounds.
• Knowledge of the Downtown South, its agencies and services and resources.
• Working knowledge of the recreational interests, social skills and related needs of the facility clients.
• Working knowledge of the rules and skills involved in various recreational activities.
• Working knowledge of community centre record keeping procedures related to activity participation and use.
• Working knowledge of the programs, facilities and policies of the recreation facility.
• Some knowledge of the fundamentals of program leadership and recreational instruction.
• Ability to work with a variety of socially and economically disadvantaged clients.
• Ability to maintain control and exercise discipline tactfully and effectively with difficult clients.
• Ability to maintain records related to the work.
• Skill in the performance of various recreational activities.
• Ability to obtain a standard First Aid Certificate (training provided) and willingness to deal with First Aid emergencies.
• A Class 5 Driver’s License is an asset.

A Police Record Check is a requirement of this position.  A clearance requires the absence of any criminal charges or convictions related to this position.

Business Unit/Department : Arts Culture Community Service  

Affiliation: CUPE15 Non Parks 

Employment Type: Auxiliary/Casual 

Position Start Date: July, 2026 

Salary Information: Pay Grade 14: $29.95 to $35.09 per hour

Application Close: August 9, 2026

At the City of Vancouver, we are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce that represents the community we so proudly serve. Indigenous peoples, people of colour, 2SLGBTQ+ persons including all genders and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.  Accommodations will be provided upon request during the selection process. Learn more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion . 

The City of Vancouver acknowledges that it is situated on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam Indian Band), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation). More about unceded traditional territories

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In addition to uploading your cover letter and resume, part of the application process may include answering application questions related to the preferred requirements of the role which may take approx. 5-10 minutes. Cover letters should express interest and highlight additional information relevant to the position and resumes should include a summary of skills and experience related to the position.