Chris McPherson
Klamath Falls,OR
Summary
Innovative instructor known for differentiated instruction and creating engaging activities. Committed to fostering community and enhancing the quality of life for residents through tailored programming that promotes social interaction and well-being.
Dynamic leader with expertise in developing tailored lesson plans and facilitating engaging workshops. Proven ability to enhance resident satisfaction and promote holistic well-being through collaborative program development.
Engaging professional with strong communication and people management skills. Experienced in mentoring junior instructors and collaborating with healthcare teams to deliver integrated support, ensuring high-quality enrichment programs that meet diverse resident needs.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
MBK Fit Instructor
MBK Senior Living
04.2018 - Current
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans tailored to diverse learning styles.
- Facilitated interactive workshops to enhance resident engagement and participation.
- Collaborated with healthcare professionals to ensure holistic resident support and well-being.
- Mentored junior instructors, fostering professional growth and teaching efficacy.
Director of Resident Enrichment
MBK Senior Living
04.2018 - 01.2021
- Led operational strategies to enhance resident satisfaction and community engagement.
- Directed staff training programs to improve service quality and compliance standards.
- Implemented new technology systems to streamline operations and improve efficiency.
- Developed budget plans aligning with organizational goals and resource allocation.
- Mentored management team on best practices for employee development and retention.
Activities Assistant
Marquis Plum Ridge Post-Acute Rehabilitation
09.2016 - 03.2018
- Coordinated recreational activities to enhance resident engagement and well-being.
- Developed individualized plans for residents based on interests and abilities.
- Facilitated group sessions that promoted social interaction and community building.
- Assisted with organizing events, ensuring smooth execution and resident participation.
- Collaborated with healthcare staff to address residents' needs during activities.
- Monitored participant feedback to refine program offerings and improve satisfaction.
- Supported emotional well-being of residents with personalized one-on-one interactions and attentive care during activities.
- Enhanced resident engagement by organizing and leading diverse activities such as arts, crafts, games, and outings.
- Planned, coordinated, and implemented activities to address needs of participants with varying abilities.
- Provided emotional support and companionship to improve quality of life for residents.
- Provided clear communication to staff, residents, and family members regarding upcoming events and any necessary accommodations or modifications needed for participation.
- Communicated with family members and other caregivers to provide updates on well-being and care of residents.
- Promoted cognitive health by designing mentally stimulating activities such as trivia games, puzzles, and memory exercises.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members to develop comprehensive activity plans addressing the diverse needs of each resident.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of each activity based on participant feedback and adjusted programming accordingly for increased satisfaction.
- Increased social interaction among residents through facilitating group activities and fostering a sense of community.
- Facilitated smooth transitions between activities through efficient set-up and break-down procedures, minimizing downtime for participants.
- Managed inventory of activity supplies, ensuring adequate materials were available for planned events while adhering to budget constraints.
- Cultivated a positive atmosphere within the facility by creating an engaging calendar filled with varied recreational offerings that appealed to different interests.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Therapeutic Recreation
The University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA05-2016
Minor - Music
The University Iowa
Iowa City, IA05-2016
Skills
- Strong communication skills
- Strong leadership and people management
- Lesson planning
- Group and individual instruction
- Collaborative team player
- Differentiated instruction
- Integrated program development
- Knowledge of cognitive decline and rehabilitation techniques
- Ability to adapt exercises for diverse client capabilities
- Deep understanding of age-specific physiology
- Familiarity with assessing fitness levels, including measuring strength, balance, and flexibility
- Conducting individual assessments and creating tailored exercise plans
Certification
- Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), National Council for Therapeutic Recreation - 2015-Present
Timeline
MBK Fit Instructor
MBK Senior Living
04.2018 - Current
Director of Resident Enrichment
MBK Senior Living
04.2018 - 01.2021
Activities Assistant
Marquis Plum Ridge Post-Acute Rehabilitation
09.2016 - 03.2018
Bachelor of Science - Therapeutic Recreation
The University of Iowa
Minor - Music
The University Iowa
Awards
International Council of Active Aging Beacon Award Nominee - 2026