YMCA Enrolling Free Spring Health & Wellness Pathway Programs

River Crossing YMCA is accepting enrollments for five free spring Pathway health and wellness programs at the Deer Path branch in Flemington. These include the Veterans Pathway program for retired or active military Veterans, the Healthy Lifestyles Pathway program for adults at risk of developing lifestyle disease, and THRIVE Cancer Wellness, a pathway program for adults currently or previously diagnosed with cancer. The Y has also shared they are enrolling two free Pathway programs for teens: Empower U for girls and Stand Up for boys.

“We are so happy to be able to offer more free Pathway programs to the Hunterdon community,” shared Kristin Heimall, VP of River Crossing YMCA’s Hunterdon County region. “Giving back to our military Veterans and being there for people who really need the Y speaks to our mission, and how the Y is here for everyone.”

Enrollment for the three free, donor-supported pathway programs for adults closes on March 31 with the start of each weekly program beginning April 7. Enrolment is open to the community and participants do not need to be members of the Y.

Enrollment for Empower U and Stand Up will remain open until April 7, and the programs will begin the week of April 14.

The Veterans Wellness Pathway program runs for 12 weeks and includes in-person personal training each week along with a weekly virtual meeting to provide support and additional information on nutrition and mindfulness. Participants receive a family membership to the Y for the duration of the program. Upon completion of the program, graduates receive an additional six month adult membership. The first Veterans Pathway program in Allentown was held this fall, graduating 10 participants from throughout the Lehigh Valley.

“The program is a kickstart and energizer for veterans to get back into a fitness routine alongside others,” explained Anthony Guerrero, a recent graduate of the Veterans Pathway program. “The workouts challenge you but don’t overwhelm as everyone is encouraged to do what they can. Coaches are mindful to suggest alternatives to the workout as needed to each individual and the facilities are conducive to getting the most out of your workout. I wish I would have connected with the Y a long time ago.”

Healthy Lifestyles is a 12-week program designed for the prevention of lifestyle diseases, including obesity, hypertension, Type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease. This program empowers participants to improve their physical health and overall well-being by adopting behavioral change strategies, regular physical activity, and social support. Participants receive a family membership to the Y for the duration of their participation in the 12-week program.

“The Healthy Lifestyles program changed my life,” shared Lisa Monahan, Healthy Lifestyles graduate. “ I lost 12 pounds, reduced my A1C from pre-diabetic to healthy, and was able to discontinue my cholesterol medicine. The program was informative and easy to follow. I was able to take advantage of many varied classes, including Zumba, tai chi and my new favorite, pickleball. Six months later, I am reaping the benefits of continued good health.”

THRIVE Cancer Wellness is A free 12-week, donor-supported program to support cancer survivors with an evidence-based cancer health and wellness program. Participants focus on recovering and maintaining strength, endurance and an overall sense of well-being. The program is open to individuals who are currently in cancer treatment or recovery, and includes a 12 week family membership to the Y for the duration of the program. Since its inception in 2012, nearly 600 survivors and their families have been impacted by THRIVE.

“I am a four-time cancer survivor and it was great to connect with others that are doing great surviving. Thank you for the opportunity to meet and continue my own battle with the wonderful people in my group.” - THRIVE Cancer Wellness Pathway graduate.

Empower U and Stand Up are free, donor-supported 6-week wellness programs for teens age 12-15, designed to strengthen self-esteem, positive relationships and self-reliance. The programs include fitness, classes and topical discussions, along with a two month membership to the Y during the program.

River Crossing YMCA Pathway Wellness programs are made possible by the generosity of YMCA donors, and the instructors are certified YMCA trainers with special training in providing for the specific needs of each program and the individual participants. For more information about all River Crossing YMCA Pathway programs, please visit https://ymcarivercrossing.org/pathways.