Volunteer at Albany (Verana Hill): Light Exercise Instructor

Description:

This opportunity is for a volunteer to facilitate light exercise sessions for senior residents at Verana Hill. Activities may include Tai Chi, Qigong, or gentle yoga and will take place in the outdoor courtyard during the morning. The goal is to support residents’ physical movement, balance, and overall wellness through instructor‑led exercise.

Reports to:

Volunteer Coordinator and the site’s Service Coordinator

Goal of Position:

To provide senior residents with an outlet for physical and spiritual activity that promotes overall wellness, mobility, and healthy routines.

Specific Tasks:

1. Prepare an agenda for each exercise session, including appropriate movements and pacing.
2. Lead residents through exercises while providing encouragement and positive feedback.
3. Provide clear instructions or guidelines for activities as needed.
4. Support residents one‑on‑one while maintaining a balance between independence and assistance.
5. Listen to resident feedback and be open to questions or suggestions.
6. Monitor attendance and ensure all participants sign the sign‑in sheet.
7. Assist with setting up and cleaning up the activity space, including moving chairs or tables as needed.
8. Communicate supply needs or concerns with the Service Coordinator or Volunteer Coordinator.

Qualifications:

Physical/Age Requirements:

• Able to maintain light physical activity for one hour.
• Able to move chairs or tables to create a safe exercise space.

Skills/Education/Experience:

• Experience or education in exercise, yoga, Tai Chi, Qigong, or movement‑based instruction preferred.
• Prior teaching or group facilitation experience is a plus.
• Friendly, patient, and open‑minded with an interest in working with seniors.
• Ability to work independently with on‑site staff support available.
• CPR and First Aid certification strongly preferred.

Benefits to the Volunteer:

1. Share movement and wellness activities with a senior community.
2. Gain teaching and leadership experience in exercise instruction.
3. Work with a diverse group of residents.
4. Support seniors’ physical and mental well‑being.
5. Help reduce social isolation through consistent, wellness‑focused programming.