For Class Leaders
Whether you're already leading workshops or looking to become a leader, this page provides the resources and training opportunities to get you started.
Resources for Current Leaders
Workshop Materials & Forms
🔷 Sign in to the Leader Resource Page to access leader resources. Download leader guides, attendance sheets, participant forms, and promotional materials.
Manage Your Workshops
🔷 Register and track your workshops through the ILPTH platform. If you are already a leader but not registered with us, sign up to create an account today.
Explore New Leader Trainings
🔷 Get certified in new workshops, stay up-to-date with the latest leader training opportunities, and continue empowering others.
Start Leading Workshops in Your Community!
Are you passionate about empowering others and improving health and confidence? IL Pathways to Health is seeking enthusiastic individuals like you to lead evidence-based health promotion workshops.
We offer programs in self-management and falls prevention, and we need dedicated leaders to educate, motivate, and inspire healthier lives.
Watch long-time volunteer Valerie share her experience leading IL Pathways workshops.
View Our Workshops by Health Promotion Team
Leader Opportunities
🔷 Lead Workshops for Your Organization: If your organization provides (or wants to provide) health promotion workshops, consider partnering with us! You will expand your impact and outreach.
🔷 Volunteer as a Class Leader: No organization? No problem! Individuals can lead workshops through our agency. Join as a volunteer class leader with IL Pathways at AgeOptions and make a rewarding difference in the lives of older adults in suburban Cook County.
Why Join Us?
🔷 Comprehensive Training: No experience? No problem! We offer hands-on, in-depth training in the IL Pathways to Health programs that resonate with you. You'll gain the skills and confidence needed to lead impactful workshops.
🔷 Ongoing Support & Resources: From day one, you’ll have access to all the tools, materials, and guidance necessary to deliver our programs effectively. We're with you every step of the way.
🔷 Create Lasting Community Impact: Lead workshops that empower individuals and improve the health and well-being of your community.
What You'll Do
🔷 Lead Health Promotion Workshops: Facilitate engaging health promotion workshops in your community.
🔷 Inspire & Motivate Participants: Educate and empower participants to take charge of their health goals.
Next Steps
Ready to take action? Here's how to become a leader:
1️⃣ Check Upcoming Trainings: Find a training that fits your schedule.
2️⃣ Submit Your Volunteer Application: If you're interested in becoming a volunteer with IL Pathways at AgeOptions, complete the application to begin your journey. After we receive your application, we will reach out to you.
If you plan to lead workshops through your organization and your organization is not yet a delivery partner, please contact us to explore the process of becoming one.
3️⃣ Attend Training & Get Certified: Complete the required number of leader training sessions to get certified.
4️⃣ Start Leading: Once trained, begin leading workshops in your community! If you become a volunteer we’ll notify you when there are workshop opportunities available.
Volunteer Opportunities Available
Take Charge Class Leader: Start your application | Take Charge Leader Information Sheet (PDF)
Fit & Stong! Class Leader: Start your application
Take Charge Series
The Take Charge of Your Health program umbrella includes the Chronic and Diabetes Self-Management evidence-based programs originally developed at Stanford University and now managed by the Self-Management Resource Center. These workshops are 2.5 hours long, held once a week for six weeks in community settings such as senior centers, churches, libraries, and hospitals across Cook County. Led by two trained facilitators, these workshops help participants manage their health and stay active.
Volunteer Facilitator Responsibilities:
- Get trained in Chronic Conditions, Cancer, Diabetes, and Chronic Pain workshops
- Commit to leading at least two workshops per year
- Workshops are available in English and Spanish, both virtually (via Zoom) and in-person in suburban Cook County
Training:
- In-person: 32 hours over 4 days
- Virtual: 32.5 hours over 6 weeks
Fit & Strong Exercise Programs
Fit & Strong! is an award-winning, evidence-based group exercise and education program developed by the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) for adults with osteoarthritis. Designed to reduce joint pain, improve mobility, and build strength, each session includes a 60-minute workout and a 30-minute group discussion, held three times per week for eight weeks. Fitness certification preferred, and experience with evidence-based programs is a plus. Workshops are conducted in-person across Cook County.
Volunteer Facilitator Responsibilities:
- Co-facilitate workshops and prepare materials
- Be punctual, dependable and maintain confidentiality
- Lead at least two workshops per year
- Public speaking skills and ability to follow a manual are essential
- English, Spanish, and Russian speakers needed (Materials provided in English/Spanish)
Training:
- Self-paced online training
- In-person shadowing required before leading a workshop independently
FAQ
Q: What types of workshops can I facilitate?
A: We offer evidence-based workshops focused on self-management and falls prevention. Explore all available programs by viewing the full list of offerings. Volunteer opportunities are listed above. To find upcoming leader training sessions, visit the leader training schedule.
Q: How will I be assigned a workshop?
A: You will be identified by the program coordinator, or AgeOptions staff, as a candidate to lead workshops. Assignments are made based on your geographical region and the availability you’ve provided. If you have specific preferences, please let your coordinator or trainer know.
Q: How will I know when workshop opportunities are available?
A: If you are not already scheduled for a workshop, you will be informed by your program coordinator or AgeOptions staff when there are workshop opportunities available in your area.
Q: What materials will I need to conduct a workshop?
A: Materials such as participant books and resources will be provided by program staff. For example, the "Living a Healthy Life" book and "Relaxation for Mind and Body" CD will be provided for CDSME, and participant workbooks will be supplied for MOB. During training, you will receive instructions on how to arrange for all materials you need.
Q: I only want to volunteer in areas where I live. Is this okay?
A: Yes. While expanding your geographical availability may increase the number of opportunities, we understand that not all facilitators have the ability to travel outside of their area. You can limit your availability to your preferred areas.
Need Help?
Our team is here to support you. Contact us for assistance or to learn more about becoming a leader.