SHREWSBURY, N.J. - Marylandian -- This fall, YMCA of the Jersey Shore (the Y) will introduce a series of free chronic disease prevention programs designed to help Shore residents grow stronger in spirit, mind, and body.

LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA, a diabetes education initiative, and a new offering for veterans, active military, and their spouses, will begin in September and October, welcoming adults from the community who want to improve their health and take control of their well-being.

President and CEO of the Y, Laurie Goganzer, said the launch of these programs underscores the Y's focus on helping people live healthier lives. "At the Y, healthy living is at the heart of what we do. These programs not only give people tools to manage or prevent chronic disease, they give them hope, confidence, and the support of a caring community. We're proud to expand access to programs that help our neighbors live healthier, stronger lives."

Jessica MacDonald, who manages the Red Bank Y's chronic disease prevention programs, said participants often see both physical and emotional benefits.

"People come to us looking to regain strength or prevent illness, but they gain so much more, including improved energy levels, greater confidence, healthy habits that stick, and a sense of control over their health," MacDonald said.

For cancer survivor Connie Goddard of Tinton Falls, the LIVESTRONG program at the Red Bank Family YMCA was life changing. When she began the 12-week program, her balance was off, flexibility limited, and her eye-foot coordination was poor. But the program gave her the tools she needed to rebuild. She now enjoys group fitness classes and swimming regularly.

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LIVESTRONG Will Run Sept. 15-Dec. 5

The LIVESTRONG program is set for Sept. 15-Dec. 5 at both the Red Bank Y and the Freehold Family YMCA. The program includes two classes per week, Mondays and Wednesdays. It is open to adults living with cancer or in recovery and requires medical clearance.

Both LIVESTRONG participants and their immediate family members can enjoy the Y anytime during the 12-week program, and those who complete the program receive a free, 12-week membership.

The LIVESTRONG program at the Red Bank Y is funded in part with support from Amboy Bank. "The Amboy Foundation is proud to support the YMCA's commitment to building healthy, thriving communities" said Jennifer Fletcher, vice president, sales manager at Amboy. "This program's focus reflects our own belief that strong communities begin with opportunities for everyone to grow and succeed."

Diabetes Education is Set for Oct. 1-Nov.5

The Old Bridge Family YMCA will host a diabetes education program on Wednesdays, at 1 p.m., Oct. 1-Nov. 5, in partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health. The free program is designed to help people with diabetes or pre-diabetes learn how to control blood sugar through exercise, how to manage medications and stress, and how to plan healthy meals.

Chris Nasta, executive director of the Old Bridge Family Y, expressed gratitude to Hackensack Meridian Health for helping to make the program available to the Y community. "We are so thankful for their support. Together, we're giving people in our community the tools and education to take control of their health and prevent Type 2 diabetes before it starts."

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Veterans Wellness to Take Place Sept. 22-Dec. 12

As part of its mission, the Y will also launch a free program specifically for veterans, active military and their spouses, offering them opportunities to improve their health and well-being in a supportive environment. Called Veterans Wellness, the program will be available Sept. 22 to Dec. 12 at the Red Bank, Freehold and Old Bridge YMCA locations.

All programs are open to the community. Space is limited. Learn more by visiting the Y's website at www.ymcanj.org/programs/prevention-care/.

About YMCA of the Jersey Shore
The YMCA of the Jersey Shore is a cause-driven nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Based in Shrewsbury, NJ, we serve 42,000 people annually in Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean counties. From lifesaving swim lessons and child care to mental health support and chronic disease prevention, we offer programs that uplift people of all ages, incomes and backgrounds. With a legacy of more than 150 years of service, we're proud to be named a USA Today Top Workplace for 2025 and Top Workplace in New Jersey 2022-2025 by NJ Advance Media.
Learn more at www.ymcanj.org.