Wellness Activities Volunteer

Who are we?

Catholic Charities was founded in 1920 with the mission of providing compassionate and quality social services to those in need. In our 100+ years of operation, we have prioritized, adapted, and created several unique programs and services to address the unmet needs of people impacted most by hardship. We remove barriers to make our vital services more accessible to families and individuals living in communities across the ten counties of southeastern Wisconsin.

Position Purpose/Summary:

With over a hundred years of dedicated service to our neighbors in need, Catholic Charities with the crucial help of volunteers, offer companionship and support to older and disabled adults at our Adult Day Center.

The Adult Day Center offers older adults and adults with disabilities who require extra care as an alternative to a nursing home or attendant care facility, acting as a place where they can come during the day and enjoy fun, relaxing activities while interacting with others. Catholic Charities strives to maintain the comfort, privacy, and dignity of each participant in the delivery of services to them, as well as to assist in maintaining a safe, neat, and clean environment. We provide certified nursing assistants to respond to care needs, offer varied daily programming based on participants' needs and wants, recreational activities, snacks, and lunch.

As a Volunteer, You Will:

• Collaborate with our staff to brainstorm and design engaging and accessible exercise sessions designed to improve the physical well-being of our members.
• Lead exercises including gentle stretching, chair exercises, low-impact aerobics, and balance activities tailored to the needs and abilities of our members.
• Ensure exercises are performed safely by demonstrating proper techniques, monitoring participants, and providing necessary adjustments.
• Personalize Activities: Adapt exercises to address individual health conditions or limitations and collaborate with center staff to integrate these activities into participants' daily routines.Provide encouragement and support- With the support of staff, foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere where participants feel comfortable and supported, enhancing their engagement.

Expected Availability and Commitment:

• Occurs at Catholic Charities' Adult Day Center (1919 N 60th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53208)
• Shifts occur in 2-hour increments on Tuesday, Thursdays or Fridays (1:00 PM- 3:00 PM), either weekly or monthly
• Participate in an in-person information session and tour the facility; complete any necessary training modules
• *Note: Catholic Charities asks for a 6-month minimum commitment

Required Training:

You will complete online learning modules that will provide guidance to working with individuals who suffered from a stroke, have arthritis, Parkingson's Disease, Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia, as well as developmental disabilities. You will learn best practices to maintain a safe environment for everyone.

Required Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years old to volunteer.
• Is pursuing or has completed a bachelor's degree in Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Kinesiology, Geriatrics, or a related field. Preferred experience in the field.
• A genuine passion for physical activity and wellness, with a desire to share this enthusiasm with others.
• Ability to work with adults of varying physical abilities and provide encouragement and support in a compassionate manner.