SUPPORT CHRONIC DISEASE PREVENTION
October is Family Health Month, and here at the YMCA of Greenwich, we are proud to champion programs that empower individuals and families to live healthier, stronger lives. This October, we are raising funds to support and expand our Chronic Disease Prevention programs—life-changing initiatives that give people the tools, support, and community they need to overcome health challenges.
Your gift will help ensure that these programs remain accessible to those who need them most, at little or no cost to participants. Together, we can create a healthier future for our community.
"As a Parkinson’s patient, I have found the special programs at the Y very helpful to my physical and mental wellbeing. The instructors for the classes are wonderful, balancing our needs to be pushed physically with our individual limitations. A natural camaraderie develops among the participants, which is great psychologically and socially."
-Barry Richelsoph, Participant in our Parkinson's Body & Mind Program
"LIVESTRONG not only helped me stay physically strong throughout my treatment but also surrounded me with people who truly understood what it feels like to receive a life-changing diagnosis. The trainers customized our sessions for each individual while fostering a sense of community and motivation that lifted us all.
What began as a way to stay strong during treatment became so much more—a source of healing, friendship, and hope. Through the LIVESTRONG program, I rediscovered my strength not just physically, but emotionally. The support, encouragement, and compassion from the trainers and my fellow participants reminded me that even in the hardest moments, we’re never alone. I’m deeply grateful to the YMCA for creating a space where strength is rebuilt, hearts are lifted, and hope truly thrives."
-Vanessa Trutt, Participant in our LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Program
WHY DONATE TO OUR CHRONIC DISEASE PREVENTION FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN?
With your generosity, we can continue offering these vital services at little or no cost, expand our reach to more families, and develop new programs that prevent disease before it starts. Together, we can create a healthier, stronger Greenwich for all. Here's how your support makes a difference:
LIVESTRONG at the YMCA
LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a proven, evidence-based program that helps adult cancer survivors reclaim their health and well-being following a cancer diagnosis. Participants take part in a 12-week program that meets twice a week for 75-minute sessions, all at no cost. In a small, supportive group environment, survivors work with YMCA Certified Instructors on cardiovascular conditioning, strength training, balance, and flexibility. During the program, participants also have full access to YMCA facilities and classes, and their progress is measured through functional and quality-of-life assessments before and after participation.
Parkinson’s Body & Mind
The Parkinson’s Body & Mind program provides group wellness classes and monthly support groups tailored for individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease. Research shows that consistent exercise can protect areas of the brain affected by the disease and improve daily function. Through exercises focused on balance, coordination, and agility, participants are able to maintain higher levels of independence while also gaining support from others who share similar experiences.
Walk With Ease
Our newest program, developed in partnership with the Arthritis Foundation, Walk With Ease helps individuals living with arthritis—or anyone simply looking to move more safely—incorporate regular activity into their lives. Participants meet three times a week for guided outdoor walks led by a certified instructor. The program also includes educational sessions on walking mechanics and overall wellness. By focusing on reducing pain, improving strength, increasing walking pace, and building confidence, Walk With Ease helps participants take meaningful steps toward better health.
Free Group Exercise Classes
The YMCA of Greenwich offers several free group exercise classes for members that help prevent and manage chronic conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis, Parkinson’s, and other neurological diseases and disorders:
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Brain Health Fitness – Combines cardio and resistance training with cognitive challenges to improve memory, balance, reaction time, and agility.
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Moving for Life – Dance-based exercise class that boosts energy, strengthens immunity, supports weight management, and eases symptoms of chronic conditions.
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Matter of Balance – Builds strength, balance, and confidence to help reduce the risk of falls.
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Buff Bones Pilates – Safe, full-body Pilates workout that supports bone and joint health, improves posture, builds strength, and reduces fracture risk.
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Aqua Arthritis – Gentle water-based workout that relieves joint stress, improves flexibility, and supports cardiovascular health.
Building the Future of Chronic Disease Prevention
Beyond these signature programs, your support ensures we can continue to grow our reach and develop new initiatives, such as those focused on diabetes prevention and management. With your help, we can bring life-changing wellness opportunities to even more members of our community.