Livestrong Program Instructor

JOB SUMMARY:

The LIVESTRONG Cancer Survivor Program Instructor will be responsible for facilitating the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program for adult cancer survivors. Instructors will guide participants through a safe, supportive, and evidence-based exercise program designed to help cancer survivors improve strength, endurance, flexibility, and overall quality of life. Instructors will build meaningful relationships with participants, provide appropriate modifications based on individual needs and abilities, and create a welcoming and supportive environment throughout the program.

JOB FUNCTIONS:

PROGRAM/DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Deliver all portions of the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program in accordance with OCY and Y-USA guidelines.

· Lead and facilitate safe, appropriate exercise sessions for cancer survivors, including cardiovascular, strength, flexibility, balance, and functional movement activities.

· Modify exercises and activities based on participants' individual needs, abilities, limitations, and comfort levels.

· Encourage group participation and interaction while creating a supportive, non-competitive environment.

· Build effective, authentic relationships with participants and foster a sense of community and connection within the group.

· Create a motivating, welcoming, and inclusive environment where participants feel comfortable asking questions and sharing their experiences.

· Prepare for each session and complete necessary follow-up tasks, including session preparation, participant reminders, and follow-up with absent participants as needed.

· Provide accessibility to participants before and after sessions to answer questions and provide support, referring questions outside the instructor's scope of practice to the appropriate staff or healthcare professional.

· Maintain accurate program records as required, including attendance, participant progress, and other required program data. Data must be entered within 48 hours of the session.

· Monitor participants throughout each session and communicate any concerns regarding safety, exercise tolerance, or changes in participant condition to the appropriate staff.

· Foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for all participants by ensuring that classes and activities are accessible and accommodating to individuals of diverse backgrounds, abilities, and needs.

· Attend staff meetings, trainings, and continuing education opportunities as necessary.

· Follow all OCY policies, rules, regulations, and procedures, including emergency and safety procedures. Complete incident and accident reports as necessary.

· Organize and put away needed session equipment. Report damaged or unsafe equipment.

· Ensure program participants are connected to the Y through membership and are aware of other relevant programs, services, and resources available to them and their families.

· Commit to seeing each LIVESTRONG cohort through completion of the full program.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• Current CPR/AED and First Aid certifications;
• High School Diploma required;
• Obtain additional required YMCA certifications and other certifications as needed;
• Completion of required prerequisites and LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Instructor training/certification through Y-USA;
• Previous experience working with adult populations, group exercise, personal training, or cancer survivors preferred;
• Wear appropriate staff attire;
• Ability to bend, kneel, move, or stand for extended periods of time;
• Ability to lift, move, and carry 45 lbs.; and ability to occasionally lift, move, and carry weights in excess of 45 lbs.;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
• Ability to create a supportive, respectful, and inclusive environment for cancer survivors.