YMCA Provides Over 1000 People Free Health & Wellness to Close 2023

From November 20 through December 20, Greater Valley YMCA welcomed 1,070 individuals into their branches to use the Y for free with the 2023 “Here For Our Community” initiative. With over 1,800 total visits, community members improved their physical, mental and emotional health during what can be a very challenging time of year.

“I was looking for somewhere I could continue my fitness routine,” explained Melike Ayan, who recently moved to the Easton area from New Jersey. “I tried lots of different places in the area. Then I tried the Y for a week in December and I was set.

“It has yoga, total body conditioning, spin class, treadmills and the elliptical machines, which is everything I need all under one roof,” Ayan continued. “I decided to join after that because of the variety of classes, the cleanliness, and the friendliness of the staff. It not only benefited me, but it is also benefiting my son, who I signed up after joining.”

As part of the initiative, the YMCA made fitness centers, pools, gymnasiums and classes available for free at all five branches, located in Bethlehem, Catasauqua, Easton, Nazareth and Pen Argyl. Free virtual wellness was also open to the entire community through Y Wellness 24/7. The virtual platform provides thousands of weekly live and on-demand health and wellness programs for all abilities and interests.

“Even the most wonderful time of the year can be stressful for some and lonely for others,” stated Zane Moore, president and CEO of Greater Valley YMCA. “Here For Our Community opened the doors of the Y to the Lehigh Valley to recharge personal wellness batteries and meet others in a warm, welcoming neighborhood space.”

Greater Valley YMCA
The Greater Valley YMCA is a volunteer-led, nonprofit community organization serving more than 10,000 members Valley-wide. The Y is committed to strengthening community by positively changing lives every day. At each of our Branches, we concentrate our efforts in three areas: Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility. Our programs and services remain accessible to the community through our charitable mission; our Y distributed more than $700,000 in financial assistance and subsidy to neighbors in 2022 alone. The Greater Valley YMCA serves the Lehigh Valley and consists of Branches in Allentown, Bethlehem, Catasauqua, Easton, Nazareth, and Pen Argyl. To learn more, support, or join the Y, visit gv-ymca.org.