Lifestyle Coach

West Cook YMCA•Oak Park, IL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Lifestyle Coach is responsible for leading and facilitating wellness programs aimed at improving participants' overall health and well-being. This role requires adherence to established curriculum and protocols while fostering a supportive and engaging environment. The Lifestyle Coach will maintain accurate records, build meaningful relationships with participants, and actively promote YMCA programming, including discussion-based chronic disease prevention programs including but not limited to Diabetes Prevention, Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring, Healthy Weight and Your Child, YMCA’s Weight Loss, and LIVESTRONG Cancer Survivorship. The West Cook YMCA will not tolerate the mistreatment or abuse of youth or consumers in its programs. A youth is defined as anyone younger than 18 years of age. Any mistreatment or abuse by a staff member or volunteer will result in corrective action, up to and including termination of employment or volunteer service. All reports of suspicious or inappropriate behavior with youth or an allegation of abuse will be taken seriously. The West Cook YMCA will fully cooperate with authorities to investigate all cases of alleged abuse. All West Cook YMCA staff and volunteers shall cooperate to the fullest extent possible in any external investigation by outside authorities or internal investigation conducted by the West Cook YMCA or persons given investigative authority by the West Cook YMCA. Failure to cooperate fully may be grounds for termination. Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required, in a related field (examples: Community Health, Psychology, Exercise Science) Other applicable education, training, and experience, which provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position will be considered.
Two years of Strong facilitation skills and comfort with public speaking.
Experience in delivering evidence-based and data-informed programming and curriculum.
Strong ability to build community within a group and have empathy for individuals from all walks of life.
Certification in CPR/AED and First Aid.
Must have or be willing to obtain required training and certification, including evidence-based health initiative instructor trainings.
Must have a flexible schedule including ability to work early mornings, in the evenings and/or on weekends.
Must be willing to travel locally to community locations to administer programming.
Must be willing to travel, potentially to other states, to receive program trainings.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of motivational interviewing techniques highly desired.
Bilingual in English and Spanish is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Monitor participant progress and adjust coaching strategies as needed to ensure continuous improvement.
Conduct workshops, seminars, and/or group coaching sessions on healthy lifestyle choices, including nutrition, exercise, and stress management, as required.
Unconditionally adhere to the curriculum and program protocols to ensure consistency and effectiveness.
Provide ongoing support, motivation, and accountability for program participants.
Foster a safe, judgment-free, and encouraging atmosphere that is friendly and welcoming to all participants.
Encourage group participation and interaction through open-ended questions and effective facilitation skills.
Build authentic relationships with participants to support their journey.
Help participants connect with one another and the YMCA community.
Display empathy, support goal setting, and follow up with participants who miss classes.
Prepare thoroughly before each class and arrive 10-15 minutes early in appropriate attire.
Gather program materials for participants.
Be accessible to participants before and after classes to answer questions and address concerns.
Enter and maintain accurate attendance and program data within 48 hours of each session.
Maintain participant confidentiality and adhere to the YMCA’s HIPAA policies and procedures.
Actively promote chronic disease interventions and encourage participation in YMCA programming.
Maintain diligent communication through the West Cook YMCA email system to program participants about the program, including preparation and follow up emails.
Obtain and maintain all applicable certifications required for evidenced-based programs.
Attend and contribute to all mandatory staff meetings and trainings.
Report any issues or concerns to the supervisor.
Substitute for other instructors to maintain overall program quality and support.
Communicate properly with the supervisor when seeking or offering to substitute any class.
Take responsibility for finding a substitute if unable to attend a class.
Follow all YMCA policies, rules, regulations, and procedures, including emergency and safety procedures.
Respond to injuries and assist in immediate first aid and proper emergency procedures.
Complete incident and accident reports as needed.
Perform additional duties as assigned by the supervisor.