Health Promotion's STAY WELL Volunteer: Lead Seniors on Their Path Towards Fitness

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It is widely known that exercise leads to a healthier heart, stronger bones and increased flexibility. For seniors, exercise is even more impactful. Results include slower mental decline; delay or prevention of disease; improved psychological well-being; and increased life expectancy.

Help make a difference in the health of New York City’s senior population by becoming a volunteer in the STAY WELL exercise program. As a volunteer, you will lead exercise classes at a local senior center using STAY WELL’s comprehensive curriculum. Classes enhance balance, cardiovascular health and build muscle strength.

If you are a dependable, punctual and motivating person who also enjoys exercise, this is an opportunity to do something good for yourself and your community. Since training is provided, prior fitness training experience is not necessary.

Tasks:

• Lead a weekly exercise class at a senior center using STAY WELL’s comprehensive curriculum
• Uphold the values of the STAY WELL Program

Requirements:

• Demonstrate strong leadership and motivational skills
• Dependability and punctuality
• Possess good interpersonal skills
• Ability to build rapport in a small group setting
• Ability to demonstrate an approach to exercise that is both enthusiastic and encouraging
• Ability to work with participants possessing various levels of fitness
• Attend a DFTA Volunteer Information Session

Skills Preferred:

• Ability to speak languages other than English desired, but not required
• Having faith in participants’ ability to make lifestyle changes is a plus

Training:

• Must participate in a multi-session training
• After training, volunteers will have to demonstrate knowledge of STAY WELL and an ability to work with groups while conducting a class

Time Commitment:

• Volunteers serve flexible days Monday-Friday, and flexible hours between 9:00am-Noon
• Sessions range from 30-60 minutes depending on the group’s abilities
• Being available to serve multiple times a week is highly desirable
• On average, volunteers serve 3-4 hours a month
• Minimum one year commitment strongly requested