Employers

There are about 300,000 recreation workers, not counting summer workers or volunteers, employed in the United States. About 31 percent work for local government agencies, and about 21 percent are employed by nursing and residential care facilities, such as halfway houses, institutions for delinquent youths, and group homes or commercial recreation establishments and private industry. Another 11 percent work for civic and social membership organizations such as the Scouting America, Girl Scouts, YMCA, or YWCA.

Starting Out

College career services offices are useful in helping graduates find employment. Most college graduates begin as either recreation leaders or specialists and, after several years of experience, they may become recreation directors. A few enter trainee programs leading directly to recreation administration within a year or so. Those with graduate training may start as recreation directors.

Recreation leaders without graduate training will find advancement limited, but it is possible to obtain better paying positions through a combination of education and experience. With experience it is possible to become a recreation director. With further experience, directors may become supervisors and eventually head of all recreation departments or divisions in a city. Some recreation professionals become consultants.

Gain experience by taking on volunteer, part-time, or summer jobs as a camp counselor or recreation aide.

Work or volunteer with several recreation organizations to become more outgoing, build your communication skills, and obtain experience.

Become proficient in as many areas as possible, such as music, crafts, sports, and other activities. Developing a specialty or a focus may increase your chances in landing a job.