Do you plan programs or services in the community for low-income individuals or families? Do you do research that includes individuals or families living with poverty? How difficult is it for you to recruit or engage this population?

Laurie Schnirer, a researcher at the University of Alberta, is seeking input on your experiences with the challenges of recruiting low income families to participate in projects and programs. Input is also being sought on the issues that arise in dealing with system or organizational policies that limit the time that can be spent engaging a family.

This research is important because invariably, we are missing “hard-to-reach” families living in poverty, and also because it is very difficult to plan both programs and research projects without knowing the time and resources that are needed to engage families. Laurie is building an evidence-based model of recruitment and engagement that will assist researchers and community partners in designing and implementing their work.

The linked survey should take approximately 20-25 minutes to fill out. The deadline is December 7, 2009.

• If you are a researcher, please click here
• If you are a community partner, please click here

Please share this email with colleagues or relevant networks. Thank-you very much for your participation in this initiative.

For more information, please contact:

Laurie Schnirer, Ph.D.
Community-University Partnership for the Study of Children, Youth, and Families
Phone: 780.492.6173
Email: schnirer@ualberta.ca
Web: www.cup.ualberta.ca

Alberta Recreationa and Parks Assocation · ARPA · Barriers · Enablers · Engaging Low-Income Individuals · Low-Income Families · Research Request · Research Request: Engaging Low-Income Individuals or Families: Examining Barriers and Enablers

Publisher/Sponsor: Alberta Recreation and Parks Association (ARPA)
Author: Peters, Jack

Abstract: This presentation from the Alberta Recreation and Parks Association 2009 Annual Conference and Energize Workshop explores the basics of geocaching and how it can be used to showcase public art, celebrate history, draw tourists to a community and promote active recreation. The role of municipalities is explored along with whether there is a need to manage the presence of caches and any possible risks.

Attachments: Geocaching

Alberta Recreation and Parks Association · ARPA · Geocaching: Getting lost in the Find · Jack · Jack Peters · Peters

Publisher/Sponsor: Alberta Recreation and Parks Association (ARPA)
Author: Miller, Rick

Abstract: This presentation, from the 2009 Alberta Recreation and Parks Association Annual Conference and Energize Workshop, provides a compelling body of knowledge, principles and strategies drawn from resiliency, positive psychology, recreation and education theory, research, and application that will help adults to unleash the potential in all children.

Attachments: Kids at Hope

Alberta Recreation and Parks Association · From Youth at Risk to Kids at Hope · Miller · Rick · Rick Miller · Youth at Risk

Publisher/Sponsor: Rethink (West) Inc.
Author: Balmer, Ken

Abstract: This session, from the 2009 Alberta Recreation and Parks Association Annual Conference and Energize Workshop, reflects on “big picture” societal change, trends in leisure, participation and demand shifts, dynamics related to professional competencies, and what’s next.

Attachments: Trends that Matter

No tags

Publisher/Sponsor: Abbott Research and Consulting
Author: Abbott, Susan

Abstract
This presentation focuses on ways to think about and understand the experience of parks and recreation users. Experiences live inside people, so they can’t be influenced directly. Each person brings a unique history with them to a property. And they bring the ‘wiring’ all human beings have, which influences their experiences. Then they interact with people, policies and procedures, marketing and communications, and every other element from the parking line-up to natural environment. All these elements combine to create emotions, memories, and an overall sense of value. You can learn to use the elements of experience the way a designer uses colours and textures to create amazing experiences, positive memories and long-term loyalty.

Presentation from the 2009 Alberta Recreation and Parks Association Conference & Energize Workshop.

Attachments: Designing the Customer Experience

Abbott · Abbott Research and Consulting · Alberta Recreation and Parks Association · ARPA · Customer Experience · Designing the Customer Experience · Susan · Susan Abbott

Publisher/Sponsor: Performance Sponsorship Group
Author: Haber, Judy

Abstract: Using case studies this presentation outlines the process that publicly funded projects and events must go through in order to be successful in working with the corporate sector. Specifically, it reviews the steps required to evaluate a property or project, and how best to package that opportunity for presentation to the corporate sector. A process is described for developing a list of corporate prospects for each project.

Presentation from the 2009 Alberta Recreation and Parks Association Annual Conference & Energize Workshop.

Attachments: Corporate Sponsorship

Capital Projects · Corporate Naming Rights and Sponsorship · Corporate Naming Rights and Sponsorship as a Revenue Stream for Capital Projects and Events · Revenue Stream

Publisher/Sponsor: Alberta Recreation and Parks Association (ARPA)
Author: Rabinovitz, Toby

Abstract
The ARPA Education & Professional Development Committee has identified a set of core competencies directly related to the recreation and parks field, and has developed a resource tool for practitioner use. One of the biggest challenges a supervisor faces is to understand which competencies and behaviours make staff effective. This presentation, from the 2009 Alberta Recreation and Parks Association Annual Conference and Energize Workshop, provides an overview of the tool kit to identify personal competencies and those of colleagues, and plan effectively for:

• Coaching sessions
• Performance management strategies
• Succession planning
• Recruiting the best match for your requirements, and
• Creating a learning and development plan customized specifically for your staff.

Attachments

• Core Competency

Coaching sessions · learning and development plan · Performance management · Performance management strategies · Recruiting · Succession planning

Job Number: 3980
Classification Title: Aquatic Instructor
Posted On: Oct 5, 2009
Closing Date – 11:00pm on: Jan 3, 2010
Number of Openings (up to): 50 – Casual Ongoing Part-time
Union: CUPE Local 30
Department: Programs & Events Section -Includes Archives and Kinsmen Sports Centre (Community Services Department)
Work Location(s):
Bonnie Doon Leisure Centre (010)
8648 – 81 St
Edmonton, T6C 2V9

Confederation Leisure Centre, 11204 – 43 Ave (027)
Edmonton, T6J 0X8

Millwoods Recreation Centre, 7207 – 28 Ave (160)
Edmonton, T6K 3Z3

Hardisty Fitness & Leisure Centre, 10535 – 65 St (095)
Edmonton, T6A 3X7

Eastglen Leisure Centre, 11410 – 68 St (084)
Edmonton, T5B 1P1

Londonderry Leisure Centre, 14528 – 66 St (109)
Edmonton, T5C 3R7

ACT Aquatic & Recreation Centre (006)
2909 113 AVE NW
Edmonton, T5W 0P3

Peter Hemingway Fitness Centre, 13808 – 111 Ave (124), T6J 0T8

O’Leary Leisure Centre (118)
8804 – 132 Ave
Edmonton, T5E 0T8

Kinsmen Sports & Fitness Centre, 9100 Walterdale Hill (104)
Edmonton, T6E 2V3

Jasper Place Fitness & Leisure Centre, 9200 – 163 St (155)
Edmonton, T5R 0A7

Grand Trunk Fitness & Leisure Centre, 13025 – 112 St (094)
Edmonton, T5E 6E4

Description:
The Community Services Department is looking for energetic, responsible and qualified individuals to work as Aquatic Instructors at various fitness and leisure centres. We also offer specialized training to assist with finding employment in this expanding market. Responsibilities for an Aquatics Instructor will include:

* Instructing aquatic lessons for children, youth, and/or adults.
* Evaluating class participant performance.
* Maintaining a safe environment for customers and staff in and around the water and at the leisure centre.
* Preparing lectures, evaluations, progress cards, routine reports, seasonal statistics, evaluations and assessment sheets as required.
* Interacting with staff and supervisors to keep current on new techniques.
* Willingness to participate in the applicable in-service programs.
* Maintaining instructional equipment used during lessons.
* Performing other related work as required.

Job Requirements:

* Completion of the 10th grade, and minimum of 16 years of age.
* Possession of Canadian Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Certification.
* Lifesaving Society Bronze Cross or Lifesaving Society Bronze Medallion.
* All awards must be kept current according to certifying organizations’ standards.
* Other Aquatic Instructor Certifications would be considered an asset: Lifesaving Society Instructor Award (LSI), Lifesaving Society “Swimmer” Instructor award, and Sears I Can Swim (ICS) teacher certification.

For information on how to obtain your Aquatic Instructor certifications, contact Kevin Lillijord at 780 496-6956

NOTE: A security clearance is a condition of employment. The successful candidate will be required to obtain a Security Clearance letter from the Edmonton Police Service or local RCMP detachment.

HOURS OF WORK: 4 – 30 hours per week, Sunday – Saturday. Shifts vary based on facility operating and programming hours.

SALARY RANGE: 10M, Salary Grade: 001, $14.807 – 17.942 (Hourly). The rates quoted are in accordance with a collective agreement between the Union and the City of Edmonton.

GENERAL: CUPE Local 30 members are requested to send a copy of their application for this competition to the union office. The City of Edmonton thanks all applicants for their interest in this employment opportunity; however, only those candidates considered for the position will be contacted. Applications will be regularly reviewed for consideration as staffing needs arise throughout the year.

The Province of Alberta is a signatory to the federal Agreement on Internal Trade and the Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement with British Columbia. The City of Edmonton will accept extra-provincial qualifications which are accepted by Alberta regulatory authorities and legislation in accord with those Agreements.
For more information, kindly contact Government of Alberta, Advanced Education and Technology with respect to trade requirements, or the Alberta professional regulatory body responsible for certification

HUMAN RESOURCE CONSULTANT: KC/JZ

Aquatic Instructor · City of Edmonton · Edmonton

Job Number: 3947
Classification Title: Lifeguard
Posted On: Nov 13, 2009
Closing Date – 11:00pm on: Nov 18, 2009
Number of Openings (up to): 5 – Casual Ongoing Part-time
Union: CUPE Local 30
Department: Recreation and Leisure Centres -Includes Millwoods Recreation Centre (Community Services Department)
Work Location(s):
Various Locations (190), (City Wide)

Description:

The Recreation Facilities Services Branch is currently recruiting energetic, responsible individuals with a strong commitment to customer service and safety, to work as Lifeguards at various fitness and leisure centres. Responsibilities include:

* Lifeguarding, safeguarding and supervising the customers using the facility in accordance with established policies and procedures
* Reacting to emergency situations and performing First Aid as required
* Providing quality customer service to facility patrons
* Providing lead hand direction to junior staff
* Preparing and submitting administrative reports as required
* Checking and regulating chemical feed equipment to ensure adherence to public health standards, in addition to adjusting and making minor repairs and backwashing filters
* Performing scheduled water tests
* Directing and performing maintenance duties including the cleaning of the swimming pool, locker rooms, washrooms, offices and other amenities located within the facility
* Acting as a shift supervisor in the absence of the Facility Foreman or the Facility Programmer
* Performing other related duties as required

Job Requirements:

* Completion of the twelfth (12th) school grade
* Minimum of 18 years of age
* Possession of National Lifeguard Service Certificate -.L.S.S.C., Aquatic Emergency Care Award – L.S.S.C., Basic Rescuer Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification, and Bronze Cross – L.S.S.C. or lifeguard certification which has been recognized and approved by the Community Services Department
* Knowledgeable in using respiratory protection including Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) is required for some duties included in this position
* Compliance with the City of Edmonton’s Code of Practice for Respiratory Protective Equipment, including medical monitoring is a requirement for this position
* AED Provider awards would be an asset
* Must have excellent communication and customer service skills

Assets:
* Experience in working with the public, lifeguarding major swim meets
* Experience with pool mechanical systems and facility HVAC mechanical systems
* Certifications in the RFP Pool Operators Level I and Building Operators Level I an asset
* MS Office and computer experience

NOTE:

* A security clearance is a condition of employment. The successful candidate will be required to obtain a Security Clearance letter from the Edmonton Police Department.
* Lifeguards must successfully complete the Swimming Pool Operators Certificate, Level I – A.A.R.F.P., Red Cross Instructor award or equivalent as recognized and approved by the Community Services Department, within one year of appointment to permanent status. These certificates would be an asset for all non-permanent lifeguards.
* All certifications must be kept current according to the certification organization standards
* Must be willing to complete the applicable in-service programs
* Where appropriate, applicants may be required to participate in job specific testing

HOURS OF WORK: 10 – 30 hours per week, Sunday – Saturday with variable 8 hour shifts. Shifts vary based on facility operating hours, from 4:30 am – 11:00 pm. Ability to work weekends/holidays is required.

SALARY RANGE: 10M, Salary Grade: 008, $17.169 – $23.029 (Hourly). The rates quoted are in accordance with a collective agreement between the Union and the City of Edmonton.

GENERAL: CUPE Local 30 members are requested to send a copy of their application for this competition to the union office. The City of Edmonton thanks all applicants for their interest in this employment opportunity; however, only those candidates considered for the position will be contacted. KC/JZ

City of Edmonton · Edmonton · Lifeguard

Job Number: 4137
Classification Title: Recreation Officer II
Posted On: Nov 3, 2009
Closing Date – 11:00pm on: Nov 17, 2009
Number of Openings (up to): 1 – Permanent Full-time
Union: CSU 52
Department: Community Building West Section (Community Services Department)
Work Location(s):
Parks and Community Services Building, #110, 11410 – 149 Street (204)
Edmonton, T5M 1W7

Description:
The Neighbourhood and Community Development Branch of the Community Services Department is seeking a Community Recreation Coordinator to provide community, organizational and program development services. Some of the general job functions of the Community Recreation Coordinator are as follows:

* Facilitating community groups in identifying and meeting their recreational, community, and parkland development needs through needs assessment, planning processes, resource development, problem-solving, and partnership development.
* Providing resource information including grant programs.
* Initiating training opportunities in leadership and organizational development.
* Developing community-based year round program plans.
* Communicating information and referral to groups and the general public.
* Presenting public education on identified recreation issues.
* Actively participating in the development of processes, systems and/or programs within the Branch.

Job Requirements:

* University graduation in Recreation Administration or related degree.
* A minimum of five years experience in the field of community recreation with demonstrated competency in community/organizational development, recreation program development and the provision of information/referral.
* Project management and needs assessment experience is an asset.
* Experience working with multi-cultural and high needs groups is an asset.
* Strong analytical and group facilitation skills.
* Grant application and proposal writing skills.

NOTE:

* A security clearance is a condition of employment. The Check must be completed prior to commencement of employment and is the financial responsibility of the candidate.
* Applicants will be required to arrange their own transportation and where appropriate will be reimbursed in accordance with City of Edmonton policy. This may require the applicant to obtain business use auto insurance.
* Possession of a valid Class 5 Motor Vehicle Operators License.

HOURS OF WORK: 33.75 hours per week, Monday – Friday. Hours of work may be subject to the terms and conditions of a variable hours of work program.

SALARY RANGE: 21M, Salary Grade: 025, $31.398 – $39.421 (Hourly), $2,119.37- $2,660.92 (Bi-Weekly), $55,315.43 – $69,449.95 (Annually). The rates quoted are in accordance with a collective agreement between the Union and the City of Edmonton.

GENERAL: Civic Service Union 52 members are requested to send a copy of their application for this competition to the union office. The City of Edmonton thanks all applicants for their interest in this employment opportunity. Those candidates considered for the position will be contacted.

The Province of Alberta is a signatory to the federal Agreement on Internal Trade and the Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement with British Columbia. The City of Edmonton will accept extra-provincial qualifications which are accepted by Alberta regulatory authorities and legislation in accord with those Agreements. For more information, kindly contact Government of Alberta, Advanced Education and Technology with respect to trade requirements, or the Alberta professional regulatory body responsible for certification.

HUMAN RESOURCES CONSULTANT: BB/JZ

City of Edmonton · Community Recreation Coordinator · Community Recreation Coordinator - Recreation Officer II · Edmonton · Recreation Officer II