For Class Leaders
Are you passionate about empowering others and helping people live healthier, more confident lives? IL Pathways to Health is seeking dedicated and enthusiastic individuals to lead evidence-based health promotion workshops in their communities.
We offer programs in chronic disease self-management and falls prevention, and we provide everything you need to succeed—training, materials, and ongoing support.
Hear From One of Our Volunteers!
Learn firsthand what it’s like to be a Class Leader with IL Pathways to Health and how leading workshops has made a meaningful difference—for participants and for our volunteers.
Why Join Us?
✔ Comprehensive Training
No experience required. We provide full training so you feel confident leading workshops.
✔ Ongoing Support & Resources
You’ll have access to program materials & guidance every step of the way.
✔ Create Lasting Community Impact
Help individuals build skills, confidence, and healthier habits that last.
Ways to Get Involved
✔ Lead Workshops for Your Organization
Partner with IL Pathways to Health to bring evidence-based programs to the people you serve.
✔ Volunteer as a Class Leader
Join as an individual volunteer and empower older adults across suburban Cook County through engaging, supportive workshops.
Volunteer Opportunities
Take Charge Series
Program Description
These evidence-based workshops help participants manage their health and stay active. Sessions are held once a week for 2.5 hours over six weeks.
Volunteer Facilitator Responsibilities
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Get trained in multiple Take Charge workshops
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Lead at least two workshops per year
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Programs available in English and Spanish
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In-person and virtual options across suburban Cook County
Training
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In-person: 32 hours over 4 days
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Virtual: 32.5 hours over 6 weeks
Fit & Strong!
Program Description
This award-winning program combines physical activity and health education to reduce joint pain and improve mobility. Held 3x/week for 8 weeks, each session includes a 60-min workout and 30-min discussion.
Volunteer Facilitator Responsibilities
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Co-facilitate workshops & prepare materials
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Maintain confidentiality and follow program guidelines
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Lead at least two workshops per year
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Strong communication skills and ability to follow a structured manual
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English, Spanish, and Russian speakers welcome
Training
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Self-paced online training
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In-person shadowing before leading independently
Next Steps
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Check Upcoming Trainings: Find a training that fits your schedule.
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Submit Your Volunteer Application: Complete our volunteer application to begin your journey with IL Pathways at AgeOptions. Our team will follow up with next steps once we receive your submission.
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Lead Workshops for Your Organization: Interested in facilitating workshops through your agency? If your organization is not yet a Delivery Partner, visit our Delivery Partner Page or contact us to learn more.
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Attend Training & Get Certified: Complete the required leader training sessions to earn your Class Leader certification.
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Start Leading: Once certified, you can begin scheduling and leading workshops. Volunteer leaders will be notified of opportunities in their area.
See Our Workshops in Action
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 Program Page. 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.