Heather Alford
Ladner
Summary
Experienced Recreation Manager specializing in planning and executing diverse recreational programs. Leads teams and coordinates activities to maximize participant satisfaction. Enhances operational efficiency, resolves conflicts, and builds positive community relationships, driving program effectiveness through a person-centered approach.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Program and Volunteer Manager
Northcrest Seniors Community
Delta
02.2026 - Current
- Plan, develop, and deliver a variety of therapeutic recreation programs that support residents' physical, emotional, social, spiritual, cultural, and cognitive well-being.
- Supervise Recreation Aides and Volunteers, including scheduling, training, orientation, and performance.
- Create monthly activity calendars and promote programs through newsletters, posters, and other communication tools.
- Complete recreation assessments, maintain care plans, document resident progress, and participate in interdisciplinary care conferences.
- Manage recreation equipment, supplies, and department purchasing or budgeting needs as applicable.
- Arrange transportation and logistics for resident outings and provide assistance with mobility when required.
- Working knowledge of Outlook, Excel, Word, PointClickCare, Activity Pro, ADP.
Wellness Director
The Maple Residences
Richmond
09.2020 - 09.2025
- Developed and implemented an activity calendar to enhance resident engagement.
- Trained and supervised recreation assistants in daily activities.
- Collaborated with staff and volunteers to coordinate successful events and programs.
- Managed the procurement of supplies to ensure availability for programs.
- Planned and executed staff functions to foster team cohesion and morale.
- Provided excellent service and attention to families and residents during face-to-face or phone conversations.
- Developed budgets for recreation programs and tracked expenses.
- Facilitated communication between vendors and suppliers providing services or products related to recreation programming.
- Established strong relationships with community members through ongoing support.
Recreation Coordinator
The Maple Residences
Richmond
10.2018 - 09.2020
- Coordinated and organized events to enhance community engagement.
- Facilitated exercise programs for resident fitness goals.
- Assisted in building planning and implemented a calendar for recreational activities.
- Ensured safe transportation for passengers while operating the bus.
Lifestyle Enrichment Assistant
Thornebridge Gardens
New Westminster
11.2017 - 07.2018
- Developed individualized recreation plans tailored to client needs and preferences.
- Designed and launched programs aimed at enhancing community engagement.
- Developed and implemented strategies to increase participation in the "Meet Me at MoMA" program.
- Organized community outings to promote social engagement for clients.
- Facilitated engaging group discussions on leisure education and life skills to enhance client understanding and participation.
- Fostered positive peer relationships through cooperative games and team-building exercises.
- Actively participated in professional development opportunities such as workshops or seminars related to therapeutic recreation best practices.
Recreation Assistant
Kinvillage
Tsawwassen
08.2017 - 12.2017
- Developed and implemented programs, evaluating performance to enhance participant engagement in complex care and adult day programs.
- Supported all levels of care in complex care and adult day programs, ensuring seamless operations and participant satisfaction.
- Transported passengers safely to various destinations.
Customer Service Representative/Post Office Clerk
Pharmasave
Ladner
01.2014 - 12.2016
- Processed transactions accurately using point-of-sale systems.
- Handled customer complaints with empathy and effective problem-solving techniques.
- Maintained inventory levels and organized merchandise displays effectively.
- Trained new team members on customer service protocols and procedures.
- Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.
- Remained calm and professional in stressful circumstances and effectively diffused tense situations.
- Processed incoming and outgoing mail efficiently and accurately.
- Managed cash transactions for postage services and retail sales.
- Trained new clerks on postal procedures and customer service standards.
- Assisted customers with inquiries regarding postal regulations and procedures.
Companion Caregiver
Private Residence
Tsawwassen
01.2010 - 12.2014
- Fostered companionship and provided emotional support to elderly client, enriching their quality of life during challenging times.
- Encouraged residents to participate in activities of daily living to enhance personal dignity.
- Helped develop mental stimulation exercises through conversations about current events or past experiences.
- Transported clients to grocery stores and medical appointments, enabling independence and access to essential services.
- Ensured gentleman's comfort and well-being while providing in-home care.
Customer Service Representative
Shell Gas
Tsawwassen
01.2012 - 12.2012
- Maintained cleanliness and safety of fueling stations, enhancing customer experience.
- Sold store items and vehicle services to customers.
- Trained new staff on operational procedures and safety protocols, ensuring compliance and efficiency.
- Operated cash register accurately and efficiently.
- Ensured shelves were well-stocked to enhance product visibility.
- Ensured cleanliness and safety of fueling stations for customer safety.
- Guided customers in selecting products, addressing inquiries about merchandise, and informing them about promotions and discounts.
Education
Therapeutic Recreation (Gerontology) Program -
Stenberg College
Surrey, BCSkills
- Program development
- Event coordination
- Holistic program development
- Inclusive recreation advocacy
- Person-centered care
- Knowledge of aging
- Motivational recreation facilitation
- Staff supervision
- Budget management
- Budget control
- Program scheduling
- Safety compliance
- Team leadership
- Staff training
- Staff assessment
- Community engagement
- Informed client communication
- Effective communication
- Relationship building
- Cross-functional teamwork
- Team collaboration
- Conflict resolution
- Coaching and mentoring
- Partnership development
- Problem-solving
- Critical thinking
- Time management
- Record-keeping
- Criminal record check
- Communication skills
- Schedule preparation
- Budget control
- Staff training
Voulenteer Work
Pony Pals Therapeutic Riding
November 2025 to present
Groom and prepare horses
Engage and support young riders with disabilities
Ensure safety requirements are met
Caregiver
October 2012-2014
Assisted in the day-to-day care of 2 adults with disabilities
Certifications
- Foodsafe Level 1
- Class 4 Unrestricted
- First Aid Basic Emergency
- Non-Violent Crisis Intervention
- Mental Health First Aid Seniors
- Serving It Right
- WHMIS
- Community Living BC Privacy and Information Management
- Psychological First Aid Self and Others
- Mental Health and Wellness Peer to Peer
- Mental Health and Wellness Managers and Leaders
- Volunteer Management Training Series
Timeline
Program and Volunteer Manager
Northcrest Seniors Community
02.2026 - Current
Wellness Director
The Maple Residences
09.2020 - 09.2025
Recreation Coordinator
The Maple Residences
10.2018 - 09.2020
Lifestyle Enrichment Assistant
Thornebridge Gardens
11.2017 - 07.2018
Recreation Assistant
Kinvillage
08.2017 - 12.2017
Customer Service Representative/Post Office Clerk
Pharmasave
01.2014 - 12.2016
Customer Service Representative
Shell Gas
01.2012 - 12.2012
Companion Caregiver
Private Residence
01.2010 - 12.2014
Therapeutic Recreation (Gerontology) Program -
Stenberg College