Updated: [Sep 3 2024]
Summary:
As a Ballroom Dance Instructor, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of seniors by providing them with an outlet for joy, expression, and physical activity.
Position Objectives:
- Encourage seniors to stay active and improve their physical health through regular ballroom dance sessions, which can help enhance their balance, coordination, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness.
- Provide an enjoyable and engaging activity that stimulates the mind, reduces stress, and combats feelings of loneliness or isolation among seniors.
- Create a warm and welcoming environment where seniors can meet new people, build friendships, and strengthen social bonds, contributing to a sense of community and belonging.
- Offer seniors an opportunity to learn and appreciate the art of ballroom dancing, regardless of their skill level, and help them discover a new passion or rekindle an old one.
- Help seniors express themselves creatively through dance, boosting their self-esteem and confidence in a supportive setting.
General responsibilities:
- Develop and conduct regular ballroom dance classes tailored to the abilities and interests of senior participants, including warm-ups, basic steps, and routines.
- Foster an inclusive, friendly, and supportive atmosphere where all participants feel comfortable, valued, and encouraged to engage in the dance sessions.
- Adjust the complexity and pace of dance routines to accommodate varying levels of physical ability, ensuring that all seniors can participate safely and enjoyably.
- Offer clear, easy-to-understand instructions and demonstrations, along with constructive feedback to help participants improve their dance skills and confidence.
- Monitor participants during dance sessions to prevent injuries, offer guidance on safe movements, and ensure that the environment is safe and suitable for dancing.
- Inspire and motivate seniors to participate actively, celebrate their progress, and promote the physical and mental benefits of dancing.
- Keep track of attendance and participation levels, providing feedback to the organization as needed to assess the program’s effectiveness.
- Encourage socialization among participants before, during, and after classes to build a sense of community and enhance the overall experience.
Qualifications and skills:
§ Demonstrated experience and proficiency in ballroom dance instruction, with a strong understanding of various dance styles.
§ Knowledge of age-related physical limitations and conditions common among seniors.
§ Ability to communicate instructions clearly and effectively.
§ Ability to adapt teaching methods and dance routines to accommodate different skill levels.
§ Ability to plan classes, manage time effectively, and maintain records.
§ Patient and friendly; be able to treat all seniors with dignity and respect.
§ Ability to work well with staff, other volunteers, and participants.
Screening practices:
§ Be 18 years of age or older
§ Ability to provide two (non-family) references
§ Abide by the confidentiality agreement around client information
§ Respect and abide by SVNH’s policies, procedures and codes of conduct and ethics
§ Must undergo a Criminal Record Check through the South Vancouver Neighbourhood House (no charge)
§ Able to commit to a minimum of 1 year.
Benefits:
§ Gain experience working with older adults.
§ Gain experience working in the non-profit organization.
§ Free training and skills development.
§ Make a positive impact for older adults in the community.
§ Chance to build relationships and make new friends.
Scheduling: Flexible
Supervision: Navigation and Peer Support Coordinator - Frank Lin (frank.lin@southvan.org)
