Volunteer With Us

Use your professional skills to make a meaningful difference in seniors' lives.

We seek certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, and kinesiology/nutrition students to volunteer 1-3 hours per week in a supportive environment focused on senior wellness.

Why Volunteer With Strong Steps?

Many fitness and nutrition professionals want to give back to their communities but struggle to find accessible, mission-driven opportunities. Strong Steps for Seniors provides a meaningful way to use your skills where they matter most—helping low-income seniors maintain independence and dignity.

Our volunteer model is designed to be flexible, rewarding, and impactful. You'll work with a supportive team, receive training on senior-specific programming, and see the direct difference you make each week.

Volunteer Roles

🏋️

Fitness Coach

Lead or assist group movement sessions focused on strength, balance, and mobility for seniors. Perfect for certified personal trainers and exercise science students.

🥗

Nutrition Educator

Provide practical nutrition education and guidance tailored to senior needs and budgets. Ideal for nutrition coaches, dietitians, and nutrition students.

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Program Support

Help create a welcoming, safe environment and assist with program logistics, participant check-in, and community connection.

What You'll Gain

💼

Professional Experience

Build your resume with meaningful community service work in your field.

🎓

Training & Support

Receive guidance on working with seniors and evidence-based program curriculum.

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Make an Impact

See the direct difference you make in seniors' lives each week.

🤝

Community Connection

Join a network of caring professionals serving their community.

📝

Reference & Testimonial

Receive a letter of recommendation after completing your commitment.

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Personal Fulfillment

Experience the joy of helping others age with dignity and strength.

Volunteer Requirements

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Certified Personal Trainer (NASM, ACE, ACSM, NSCA, or similar)
  • Certified Nutrition Coach or Registered Dietitian
  • Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or Nutrition student (junior/senior level or graduate)
  • Experience working with older adults (preferred but not required)
  • Passion for helping underserved populations
  • Volunteers complete a short orientation and may be asked to pass a background check depending on role/location.

Time Commitment:

  • 1-3 hours per week during program sessions
  • 12-week program commitment preferred (aligns with our pilot)
  • Flexible scheduling based on program locations and your availability
  • Optional: Attend brief monthly volunteer meetings (30 minutes)

What We Provide:

  • Orientation and training on senior-specific programming
  • All curriculum, materials, and equipment
  • Background check processing
  • Ongoing support from program coordinator
  • Volunteer appreciation and recognition
  • Letter of recommendation upon completion

A Day in the Life of a Volunteer Coach

Before the session: You arrive 15 minutes early to set up equipment (resistance bands, chairs, light weights) and greet participants as they arrive.

During the session: You lead a gentle warm-up, guide participants through safe strength and balance exercises (with seated modifications), and wrap up with a cool-down. You encourage participants, answer questions, and create a supportive atmosphere.

After the session: You help pack up equipment, chat with participants, and spend a few minutes connecting with other volunteers or the program coordinator.

Total time: 1.5-2 hours, once per week. Impact: Immeasurable.

What Our Volunteers Will Experience

Supportive Environment

You'll never feel alone. Our team approach means you'll always have support from fellow volunteers and program coordinators.

Meaningful Work

Every session directly improves participants' strength, confidence, and independence. You'll see the impact firsthand.

Flexible Commitment

We work with your schedule. Whether you can commit to every week or rotate with other volunteers, we'll find what works.

Volunteer Application Process

1️⃣ Submit Interest Form

Complete our brief volunteer interest form with your background and availability.

2️⃣ Initial Conversation

Have a casual phone or video chat with our program coordinator to discuss the role and answer questions.

3️⃣ Background Check

Complete a simple background check (we cover the cost).

4️⃣ Orientation & Training

Attend a volunteer orientation session to learn about our programs, safety protocols, and senior-specific considerations.

5️⃣ Start Volunteering!

Begin making a difference in your community with ongoing support from our team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be certified?

For fitness coaching roles, yes—we require current certification (NASM, ACE, ACSM, etc.). For nutrition education, we prefer certified coaches or RDs, but advanced students may qualify. Program support roles don't require certification.

What if I've never worked with seniors before?

That's okay! We provide training on senior-specific considerations, safety protocols, and effective communication. Many of our volunteers learn as they go.

Can I volunteer if I'm a student?

Absolutely! Junior and senior undergraduate students, as well as graduate students in kinesiology, exercise science, or nutrition programs are welcome. This is a great way to gain practical experience.

What if I can only commit to a few weeks?

While we prefer 12-week commitments to provide consistency for participants, we understand schedules vary. Contact us to discuss what might work.

Is there any compensation?

This is a volunteer role without monetary compensation. However, you'll gain valuable experience, professional development, and the satisfaction of making a real difference.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Join our team of dedicated volunteers helping seniors age with strength and dignity.

Apply to Volunteer

Questions? Email us at info@strongstepsforseniors.org

Spread the Word

Know a certified trainer, nutrition coach, or student who might be interested? Share this opportunity with them!