Parkinson's Program Instructor

POSITION SUMMARY:  

The Parkinson’s Program Instructor will impact and engage YMCA and community members with a particular focus on healthy living for those battling neurodegenerative disorder. This will be accomplished through instructing high-quality, innovative group exercise classes in a safe, effective, and inviting atmosphere.  

In addition, every position in the YMCA of Coastal Georgia, Inc. is responsible for upholding the Judeo-Christian principles that are central to our mission by modeling behaviors that exemplify the four pillars of character - caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.  

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  

Lead and instruct high-quality group exercise classes to a special population with chronic and progressive disease to promote healthy living and movement among participants.  

Develop and prepare routines and provide appropriate music for class participants.  

Conduct fun, safe, and educational classes that encourage participants struggling with general movement, muscle control, balance, and coordination issues.   

Check attendance daily, maintain accurate class attendance records, and report to Program Director 

Engage in active listening and model relationship-building skills in all interactions with members, volunteers, guests, and staff members to build relationships and communicate our cause 

Respond to all member and community inquiries and complaints in a timely and professional manner 

Reflect and uphold the mission and core values of the YMCA when dealing with YMCA group exercise participants, parents, and community members 

Follow and enforce YMCA policies and procedures; respond to emergency situations 

Must be highly motivated, professional, and have an enthusiastic attitude 

Assist in the overall retention and satisfaction of YMCA members through appropriate customer service 

Assist in the Annual Campaign fundraising program for the YMCA 

Maintain a positive and cheerful attitude with staff, peers, and program participants 

Willingly performs other duties as assigned 

This organization has zero tolerance for abuse and will not tolerate the mistreatment or abuse of consumers in its programs. Any mistreatment or abuse by an employee or volunteer will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or volunteer service and cooperation with law enforcement. This organization takes every allegation of abuse or misconduct seriously and will fully cooperate with the authorities to investigate all cases of alleged abuse or misconduct. Employees and volunteers shall cooperate with any external investigation by outside authorities or internal investigation conducted by the organization or persons given investigative authority by the organization. An employee or volunteer’s failure to cooperate with an investigation will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment or dismissal from the organization.

QUALIFICATIONS/CERTIFICATIONS:  

Maintains a certification by the Nationally Accredited Parkinson Association 

Ability to conduct classes and activities relating to fitness for a minimum of 45 minutes. 

Ability to perform all physical aspects of the position; including walking, standing, bending, reaching, and lifting. 

Required certifications: YMCA Healthy Lifestyle Principles, current national certification (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM, IFTA) in group fitness instruction, or any other approved nationally recognized certifying body of Group Exercise certifications. 

Certification in micro areas of expertise (Yoga, Pilates, Cycling, TRX, Zumba, etc.). 

YMCA New Employee Orientation and CBT Training within 60 days of hire. 

At least one year of experience teaching group fitness classes preferred. 

Continuing educations/renewals of certifications kept up to date and submitted to the supervisor on or before certifications expire. 

CPR and First Aid required within 30 days of employment. 

Must be able to pass a criminal background check and obtain authorization to work with children under the Georgia Department of Labor and YMCA guidelines.