VOLUNTEER - Youth Nutrition Program Instructor

YMCA of Metropolitan Denver•Denver, CO

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA of Metro Denver is seeking energetic, caring, and enthusiastic volunteers to inspire youth through fun nutrition and cooking programs. This volunteer opportunity is ideal for college students, aspiring educators, nutrition enthusiasts, retired professionals, parents, or community members who want to share their passion for healthy habits. The role involves creating engaging, hands-on experiences for youth ages 5-14 through cooking activities, nutrition education, after-school programs, and wellness games. Volunteers will support youth in building confidence and life skills in a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment. Depending on needs, volunteers may lead activities, co-teach with YMCA staff, substitute, or support special events and camps. This position supports the YMCA's mission to strengthen the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age
Passion for working with youth and supporting community wellness
Ability to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for participants and families
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Reliable, punctual, and able to work collaboratively with staff and volunteers
Ability to follow YMCA policies, procedures, and safety guidelines
Complete YMCA volunteer onboarding and orientation
Successfully complete a background check in accordance with YMCA policies
Complete required child abuse prevention and safety training
Review program curriculum and food safety expectations
Participate in ongoing program or safety training as needed

Nice To Haves

Experience working with children or youth programs
Interest or background in cooking, nutrition, health education, or wellness programming
Bilingual English/Spanish skills strongly preferred
Food safety knowledge or willingness to complete training
ServSafe certification or related food safety training is a plus
Positive, energetic, and team-oriented approach

Responsibilities

Support or lead youth cooking and nutrition education classes for participants ages 5–14
Assist with program setup, food preparation, instruction, participant engagement, and clean-up
Follow YMCA curriculum guidelines and maintain safe food handling and sanitation practices
Foster a positive, inclusive, and engaging environment that encourages participation and learning
Support participants with varying learning styles, dietary restrictions, food allergies, and individual needs
Build positive and respectful relationships with youth, families, staff, and community partners
Encourage healthy habits and age-appropriate nutrition education through hands-on activities
Communicate effectively with YMCA staff regarding participant needs, attendance, and program flow
Maintain organized, clean, and safe kitchen and classroom spaces
Model YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility in all interactions
Follow all YMCA policies and procedures, including child abuse prevention and risk management requirements
Teaching or co-teaching nutrition and cooking classes
Substituting for instructors when needed
Assisting during Cooking with Kids programs
Supporting after-school programs, camps, enrichment activities, and special events
Assisting with family engagement or community wellness initiatives

Benefits

Gain hands-on experience in youth programming and community wellness
Build leadership and teaching skills
Connect with families and community members
Make a meaningful impact in the lives of youth
Be part of a mission-driven and supportive YMCA team
Flexible volunteer scheduling opportunities
Opportunity to make a positive impact on youth health and well-being
Gain hands-on experience in nutrition education and community health programming
Develop leadership, teaching, and facilitation skills
Build relationships within the YMCA and local community
Be part of a supportive YMCA team dedicated to strengthening community well-being