ARTHRITIS PROGRAM SPECIALIST

A Status: Non-Exempt Part-Time

Reports to: Program Director over Health and Wellness

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. As an Arthritis Program Specialist, you play an important role in empowering participants to effectively manage their arthritis. Your responsibilities will include encouraging physical activity and delivering comprehensive education on arthritis management. Through cultivating meaningful relationships and fostering a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere, you will contribute significantly to improving overall wellness.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Educate the community about arthritis prevalence and the importance of Arthritis-Appropriate, Evidence-Based Interventions (AAEBIs).

2. Recruit and enroll participants in AAEBIs such as Walk with Ease (WWE), Tai Ji Quan (TJQ), Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program (AFAP), and/or Enhance®Fitness.

3. Ensure fidelity of AAEBIs by adhering to program guidelines.

4. Assist participants in understanding the relationship between arthritis, exercise, and pain.

5. Support participants in developing and implementing personalized walking plans with achievable goals (WWE).

6. Provide strategies and resources for sustaining long-term exercise routines.

7. Record participants' walking progress during sessions (WWE)

8. Send regular support messages to assigned participant groups.

9. Administer surveys for program improvement purposes.

10. Maintain confidentiality of participant health information.

11. Collaborate with key stakeholders, including the NJ YMCA State Alliance, to report program findings and outcomes.

12. Attend monthly meetings with AMAEBI-implementing YMCAs.

13. Answer questions to assist members in achieving arthritis-related goals.

14. Stay informed about updates from The Arthritis Foundation and Osteoarthritis Action Alliance to provide the most current support to members.

15. Build effective, authentic relationships with members.

16. Observe and adjust approach to support all participants’ capabilities, physical conditions, health, and culture.

17. Celebrate participant achievements related to program or personal goals, mastering specific skills or overall health.

18. Keeps accurate records.

19. Follows YMCA policies and procedures; responds to emergency situations.

20. Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Requires HS diploma or equivalent

2. Required certifications: CPR, First Aid, AED within 30 days of hire.

3. Orientation to Healthy Living at the Y & Foundations of Listen First

4. HIPAA Privacy & Security Training

5. Walk with Ease instructor training

6. Other AAEBI instructor trainings if applicable

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $16.99 - $18.20 per hour

Expected hours: 10 – 12 per week

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule

Shift:

• 4 hour shift
• Day shift
• Evening shift

Weekly day range:

• Monday to Friday
• Rotating weekends

Ability to Relocate:

• Woodbury, NJ 08096: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person