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Activity Director Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Activity Director information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$11

$22

$40

How much do activity director jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity director in Decatur, IL is $22.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.74 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Activity Directors?

Activity Directors are professionals responsible for planning, organizing, and leading recreational and social activities, typically in settings such as senior living communities, nursing homes, or rehabilitation centers. Their goal is to enhance the quality of life for participants by providing engaging programs that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. They assess residents' interests and abilities, develop activity calendars, and often coordinate events with volunteers or other staff. Activity Directors also document participation and may adapt activities to meet the needs of individuals with varying abilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Activity Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Activity Director, you need strong organizational skills, creativity, and experience in planning group activities, often supported by a degree in recreation, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with scheduling software, budgeting tools, and sometimes certifications like ADC (Activity Director Certified) are common requirements. Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills help motivate participants and collaborate with staff and families. These abilities are crucial for developing engaging programs that enhance participant well-being and meet regulatory standards.

How does an Activity Director typically collaborate with nursing and therapy staff in a senior living facility?

An Activity Director works closely with nursing and therapy teams to ensure that planned activities are safe, appropriate, and tailored to residents' physical and cognitive abilities. Regular meetings and ongoing communication help coordinate schedules, adapt activities for varying health needs, and support residents' overall well-being. This collaboration ensures that activities not only provide enjoyment but also align with care plans and therapeutic goals. Building strong relationships with these teams is essential for creating a supportive and engaging environment for residents.

What is the difference between Activity Director vs Recreation Therapist?

AspectActivity DirectorRecreation Therapist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certification in activity planningDegree in recreation therapy, therapeutic recreation, or related field; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentSenior living communities, nursing homes, adult day programsHealthcare settings, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, senior care facilities
Employer & IndustryLong-term care, assisted living, senior centersHealthcare, mental health, rehabilitation, senior care

While both roles focus on engaging clients through activities, Recreation Therapists have specialized training to develop therapeutic programs that address health and recovery goals. Activity Directors primarily plan recreational activities to enhance quality of life. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Activity Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Activity jobs in Decatur, IL? The most popular types of Activity jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Activity Director jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Activity Director jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Activity Director jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Activity Director job openings:
Site Director at John Hills Magnet School

Site Director at John Hills Magnet School

KinderCare Education

Decatur, IL • On-site

$16.35 - $33.15/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


KinderCare Learning Centers rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 818 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

153rd of 193 rated education and training


Job description

Futures start here. Where first steps, new friendships, and confident learners are born. At KinderCare Learning Companies, the first and only early childhood education provider recognized with the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award, we offer a variety of early education and child care options for families. Whether it’s KinderCare Learning Centers, Champions, or Crème de la Crème, we build confidence for kids, families, and the future we share. And we want you to join us in shaping it—in neighborhoods, at work, and in schools nationwide.

When you join Champions, you’ll be supporting hardworking families and elementary-aged kids during out-of-school time, on school grounds. Whether you’re partnering with administrators to bring our programs to their district, or buddying up with students to aim higher, think bigger, and never give up, you’ll be leading the way toward inspired learning.  

If you’re passionate about inspiring children and teachers alike to learn and grow, the Site Director role could be for you! Site Directors are passionate about educational excellence and empowering confident teachers. As a Site Director, you will use our nationally recognized curriculum as a framework to create unique and engaging classroom experiences. Site Directors are committed to making their site successful and know that important relationships with children, families, and their team are critical to success. Successful Site Directors are fully engaged, enthusiastic about their work, and eager to share their knowledge.

When you join our team as a Site Director, you will:

  • Lead and supervise a group of teachers to create unique and engaging classroom experiences, leverage and develop “best in class” educators to be passionate and committed professionals
  • Ensure your site is operating effectively; maintain licensing, safety, and educational standards
  • Partner with parents with a shared desire to provide the best care and education for their children
  • Cultivate positive relationships with families, teachers, school and district leaders, state licensing authorities, community contacts, and corporate partners
  • Lead recruitment and enrollment efforts of new families and children in our sites

Required Skills and Experience:

  • At least one year of teaching experience with the ability to develop, engage, and inspire a team
  • A love for children and a strong desire to make a difference every day
  • Ability to build relationships with families and staff and create a dynamic environment where play and discovery go hand-in-hand
  • Outstanding customer service skills, strong organizational skills, multi-task and manage multiple situations effectively
  • Meet state specific guidelines for the role
  • Be physically able to use a computer with basic proficiency, lift a minimum of 40 pounds, and work indoors or outdoors. Be able to assume postures in low levels to allow physical and visual contact with children, see and hear well enough to keep children safe, and engage in physical activity
  • Read, write, understand, and speak English to communicate with children and their parents in English
Range of pay $16.35 - $33.15 Hourly

Our benefits meet you where you are. We’re here to help our employees navigate the integration of work and life:
- Know your whole family is supported with discounted child care benefits.

- Breathe easy with medical, dental, and vision benefits for your family (and pets, too!).
- Feel supported in your mental health and personal growth with employee assistance programs.
- Feel great and thrive with access to health and wellness programs, paid time off and discounts for work necessities, such as cell phones.
- … and much more.


We operate research-backed, accredited, and customizable programs in more than 2,000 sites and centers across 40 states and the District of Columbia. As we expand, we’re matching the needs of more and more families, dynamic work environments, and diverse communities from coast to coast. Because we believe every family deserves access to high-quality child care, no matter who they are or where they live. Every day, you’ll help bring this mission to life by building community and delivering exceptional experiences. And if you’re anything like us, you’ll come for the work, and stay for the people. 

KinderCare Learning Companies is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, gender identity or expression, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.


Job Posting End Date : 2026-07-22

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