Senior Nutrition Program - Salinas Family YMCAAt — Salinas Family YMCA
The YMCA Senior Nutrition Program supports older adults (60+) by providing nutritious meals in a welcoming, community setting that encourages social connection and healthy aging. In addition to receiving a meal, participants have the opportunity to engage with others, reduce social isolation, and take part in light activities that promote community and well-being. Service learning students help support the program by assisting with setup, welcoming participants, supporting meal distribution, helping with activities, and engaging in friendly conversation with seniors. This experience allows students to contribute to the community while gaining valuable insight into the importance of nutrition, social support, and programs that help older adults maintain independence and quality of life.
5 Service Learner Spots
Students will receive a short, pre-shift training to prepare them for their responsibilities in the Senior Nutrition Program. Training will cover:
- Activity Facilitation:
- How to lead and support group activities such as bingo or games, ensuring participants are engaged and included.
- Community Relationship Building:
- Techniques for interacting respectfully and effectively with older adults, fostering positive social connections.
- Food Handling:
- Safe practices for distributing meals to ensure hygiene and participant safety.
- Paper Registration:
- How to assist with participant check-in and registration, including accurately recording information and managing forms.
This training ensures students are confident, knowledgeable, and prepared to create a safe and welcoming environment for program participants.
Opportunity Supervision
Students will receive continuous guidance and supervision from YMCA staff and program coordinators during their time in the Senior Nutrition Program. Staff will be available to:
- Answer questions and provide clarification on tasks as needed
- Observe interactions with participants to ensure safety and positive engagement
- Offer feedback on activity facilitation, registration, and meal distribution
- Assist with problem-solving if any issues arise during the program
- Ensure adherence to safety and hygiene standards, particularly during meal handling
This ongoing support ensures that students feel confident, supported, and able to effectively contribute to a safe and welcoming environment for all program participants.
Photography from personal student phones is not allowed, facility will have a separate device for videos and photos.
If interested, please contact:
Cristian Reyes, Healthy Living Director
(831)758-3811 ext. 1003
Cristianreyes@ymcacentralcoast.org
There is a Volunteer Form, and background check that will need to be completed prior to service.