Adaptive Programs Assistant

About the Role

The Adaptive Programs Assistant supports Cougars Athletics and Recreation in the creation, delivery, and evaluation of inclusive and participant-driven adaptive sports, physical activity, and recreation programs within the MRU Recreation Centre. This role plays a key part in ensuring that programming is informed of, and responsive to, the physical, social, emotional, and psychological needs specifically of those who experience disability at Mount Royal University (MRU) and within the broader community. Working collaboratively with the Adventure Programs Supervisor and community partners, the Assistant helps develop environments that prioritize equity, accessibility, and belonging through movement for those experiencing disability. Mentorship and training in the role will occur through interactions with various full-time staff members, including the Adventure Programs Supervisor, and members of the Calgary Adapted Hub. 

Responsibilities

• Assist in the planning, coordination, and delivery of adaptive sports, physical activity, and recreation programs for those experiencing disability. This includes the creation of programs within recreation management software, attending programs to meet participants and families, setting up adaptive equipment, and supporting participants as needed.
• Support the facilitation, monitoring, and continuous improvement of current adaptive programs in the Recreation Centre.
• Act as a liaison between Cougars Athletics and Recreation and adaptive communities both on and off campus, including the Calgary Adapted Hub and other community organizations.
• Engage with participants and stakeholders to ensure programming reflects lived experiences, participant goals, and inclusive best practices.
• Research and recommend new resources, initiatives, and partnerships that could enhance adaptive program offerings—particularly through collaboration with other internal and external stakeholders and specific to those experiencing disability.
• Draft proposals for new program ideas or enhancements, including program objectives, resource needs, and potential collaborators.
• Contribute to the design and implementation of program assessment tools to evaluate outcomes, accessibility, and participant satisfaction.
• Represent adaptive programming initiatives at internal and external events, student fairs, and open houses as needed.

Qualifications

• Personal Information Check & Vulnerable Sector Check (VS) within 60 days of employment.
• Must be a current post-secondary student (enrolled in both Fall and Winter semesters).
• Personal lived experience with disability is considered a strong asset and preference may be given to applicants who identify as having a disability.
• Educational, volunteer, or work experience in the Physical Literacy, Adapted Physical Activity, Kinesiology, Therapeutic Recreation, Critical Disability Studies, or Education fields is an asset. 
• Experience with ASL, communication technology or creative communication methods, universal design, and accessible standards is an asset.
• A passion for adaptive physical activity, sport, and recreation that enhances well-being and creates community.
• Demonstrated commitment to developing community informed programming that centres feelings of belonging and dignity.
• Awareness, reflexivity, and accountability of one's own identity and openness to learning from diverse identities and perspectives.
• Ability to build supportive, respectful, and collaborative relationships with peers, participants, and partners.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Creative, self-motivated, and willing to take initiative in developing new ideas and solutions.
• Proficiency with Google Workspace and other digital tools used for communication and collaboration.
  

Additional Benefits:

• Mentorship Opportunities
• Mount Royal Staff Association Membership Perks and Benefits 
• Professional development opportunities, including access to apply for our CAR Casual Employee PD Fund three times per year
• Access to our Staff Recognition and Rewards program, Bucketlist
• CAR Casual Employee Awards Event held annually
• Connection within local communities
• Complimentary towel and lock service
• 50% CAR employee discount on most recreation programs
• 40% MRU Employee Family Discount on select membership packages

• Under Armour swag and exclusive online store

Salary: $ 15.45 - $19.44 per hour 

Closing Date: October 17, 2026 or until a suitable candidate is chosen

A resume should be submitted in one .pdf document. Please title your .pdf document as follows: [Last Name]_[Requisition Number]_[Document Title].pdf (ex. Smith_1234_CV.pdf).