Director of Programs, Services & Community Outreach

The Director of Programs, Services & Community Outreach

About Organization

Copernicus Lodge is a not-for-profit, charitable and ethno-specific organization made possible through the efforts of the Polish Canadian community and the vision of Father Michael Smith, OMI. Located in the heart of the Roncesvalles community in the heart of west-end Toronto, we provide a continuum of care in a predominantly Polish, Roman Catholic environment to meet the changing needs of our seniors. The Lodge is comprised of an Adult Day Program, 200 independent, affordable self-care apartments with a Supportive Housing program, and a 228 bed Long Term Care home.

Position Summary

The Director of Programs, Services & Community Outreach is a senior leadership role responsible for the strategic development, implementation, and oversight of all resident programs, community-based services, and external partnerships across the organization. This role ensures alignment with legislative requirements, organizational strategic priorities, and quality improvement frameworks while enhancing resident experience, community engagement, and system integration.

The Director plays a key role in advancing a continuum of care approach (bridging long-term care, independent living, and community-based services) while fostering meaningful partnerships with healthcare providers, community agencies, and system partners.

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Strategic Leadership & Program Oversight
• Provide leadership and direction for all therapeutic, recreational, social, and community-based programs across the campus (e.g., LTC Programs, Adult Day Program, outreach initiatives).
• Lead the planning, development, and evaluation of programs aligned with the Fixing Long-Term Care Act, 2021 and Ontario Regulation 246/22.
• Ensure programs support resident-centered care, quality of life, and holistic well-being.
• Oversee program innovation, including specialized initiatives (e.g., cognitive support, behavioural supports, wellness programming).
• Community Outreach & System Integration
• Develop and maintain strategic partnerships with organizations such as Ontario Health, CAMH, community support service agencies, and local healthcare providers.
• Lead community engagement strategies to expand awareness, access, and utilization of services (e.g., Adult Day Program, outreach supports).
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities, grants, and system-level initiatives to support program growth.
• Represent the organization at community tables, regional networks, and sector working groups.
• Quality, Compliance & Accreditation
• Ensure all programs meet legislative, regulatory, and accreditation requirements, including alignment with Accreditation Canada standards and Required Organizational Practices (ROPs).
• Collaborate with Quality and Clinical teams to integrate programs into the Quality Improvement Plan (QIP) and Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) processes.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to engagement, participation, outcomes, and satisfaction.
• Support inspection readiness and participate in Ministry inspections as required.
• Operational Management
• Oversee day-to-day operations of programs and community services, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery.
• Manage budgets, resource allocation, and staffing models across program areas.
• Ensure appropriate documentation, reporting, and data tracking systems are in place.
• Lead risk identification and mitigation strategies within program and outreach services.
• Team Leadership & Development
• Provide leadership, coaching, and performance management to program and outreach staff.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Support workforce planning, succession planning, and staff development initiatives.
• Promote staff engagement and participation in organizational initiatives (e.g., surveys, accreditation readiness).
• Resident, Family & Community Experience
• Enhance resident and client experience through meaningful, inclusive, and culturally appropriate programming.
• Engage residents, families, and community members in program planning and evaluation.
• Address concerns, feedback, and opportunities for improvement in a timely and professional manner.

CORE GUIDING PRINCIPLES AND EXPECTATIONS:

• Every employee should understand and share in Copernicus Lodge’s Mission, support our Vision, and live our Values of: compassion, respect & dignity, integrity, excellence, and collaboration
• Abide by the home’s Zero Tolerance for Abuse and Neglect
• Compliance with our Whistleblowing Policy
• Comply with and support AODA – Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005
• Refrain from acts of gossip, bullying, or harassment
• Support Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within the home
• Infection Prevention and Control – support and comply with IPAC policies within the home
• Occupational Health & Safety – all staff is expected to comply with all regulations under the act. This includes but is not limited to, adhering to health and safety guidelines around WHIMS, MSD, SDS guidelines, safe use of chemicals, safe lifting, reporting safety hazards, incident/injury or near miss incidents
• Promote safe work practices for self and others
• Compliance with Emergency Code procedures
• Customer Service-based approach when working with residents, families, visitors, contractors, or Ministry representatives.
• Maintain Privacy and Confidentiality as per PHIPA, organizational and other legislative requirements
• Maintain professional boundaries with residents, families and visitors
• Cyber Security / Information Security – adhere to established IT and internet policies
• Complaints and Concerns – follow chain of command related to escalation of concerns
• Effective and efficient use of supplies and equipment to reduce wastage and damage to property

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Health Administration, Social Work, or a related field
• Minimum 5–7 years of progressive leadership experience in long-term care, seniors’ services, or community health.
• Strong knowledge of applicable legislation, including the Fixing Long-Term Care Act, 2021.
• Experience with Accreditation Canada processes and quality improvement frameworks.
• Fundraising experience is considered an asset.
• Demonstrated experience in community engagement, partnership development, and program expansion.
• Strong financial and operational management skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement abilities.

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. If you have any requirements for accommodation due to disability, please advise Human Resources during the recruitment and selection process. We will work with you to best meet your needs as per the resources available to us.

Copernicus Lodge is an equal-opportunity employer. We would like to thank all those that apply but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $80,000.00-$90,000.00 per year

Benefits

• Dental care
• Employee assistance program
• RRSP match
• Vision care
• Wellness program

Work Location: In person