Recreational Program Associate

Description:

Sunday House is a unique lakeside community initiative in Port Carling, Muskoka, running every Sunday morning from June 29 to August 24, 2025. The program focuses on creating a welcoming, safe, and engaging summer environment for families, emphasizing hospitality and connection by hosting swimming, paddling, play activities, and shared meals.

The Recreational Program Associate will be a key team member delivering and supporting Sunday House’s programming. This role goes beyond typical waterfront jobs by combining lifeguarding, teaching swimming, leading paddling sessions, and facilitating games to create a memorable, safe, and warm experience for guests of all ages, especially children.

Key Responsibilities:

• Rotate roles weekly including lifeguarding, swim instruction, paddling leadership, outdoor games facilitation, and guest support

• Lead individual and small-group swim lessons for children aged 1 to 16 years

• Supervise waterfront zones, ensuring open-water safety and compliance

• Instruct guests in beginner canoeing and kayaking, focusing on comfort and safety

• Organize and lead dryland games and creative activities for families and children

• Assist with hospitality efforts such as welcoming guests, lunch support, setup, and event transitions

• Participate in paid training/setup day on June 29

• Work extended hours on August 3 for a special midsummer event (7:00 AM to 11:00 PM)

Required Qualifications:

• National Lifeguard Certification (Canada)

• Experience canoeing and kayaking in open-water environments

• Demonstrated experience working with children in aquatic or recreational contexts

• Confident and proactive presence with strong communication skills

• Reliable transportation and local accommodation for weekly travel to Port Carling

Preferred / Asset Qualifications:

• Swim Instructor Certification

• Pleasure Craft Operator Card (motor boat license)

• Smart Serve certification

• Experience teaching yoga or other movement/creative activities

• Previous experience in camp, community programs, or hospitality

Logistics and Schedule:

• Location: #14-1211 Foreman Road, Port Carling, ON

• Weekly shifts: Sundays, 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM (extended hours 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM on August 3)

• Paid training/setup day: Sunday, June 29

• Team breakfast each Sunday at 7:30 AM lakeside before guests arrive

• One 30-minute unpaid break per regular Sunday, two on extended day

What Makes This Role Special:
At Sunday House, small thoughtful actions create a big impact. From the symbolic orange towel signaling the start of the day to personal attention to guests’ needs, you will contribute to a warm, safe, and joyful lakeside experience that fosters connection and community. You will join a supportive team that values presence, initiative, and hospitality. This role is perfect for anyone wanting meaningful summer work by the lake with real people in a unique setting.