WWFY CELEBRATES VOLUNTEERS & COMMUNITY SUPPORT IN WELLNESS PROGRAMS
The Westport Weston Family YMCA’s Wellness Department would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the many volunteers whose dedication and support have been instrumental in enhancing our wellness programs. Their contributions, which range from fitness support to emotional well-being, help us create a strong, positive impact for our members. Today, we recognize some of the amazing individuals and groups that continue to give their time and expertise to support our mission of healthy living.
LIVESTRONG® AT THE Y
Our LIVESTRONG® program, launched in September, provides cancer survivors and those affected by cancer with the opportunity to jump-start their fitness journey. This 12-week program, which meets twice a week, focuses on building strength, endurance, and community support. We are extremely grateful to Abby Greenspun, a Westport-based registered dietitian, for her continued volunteer support. Abby visits our group regularly, leading educational discussions on nutrition and healthy choices, and sharing the latest science-backed findings. Her expertise has been invaluable, and we’re deeply appreciative of her time and commitment to our participants.
A special thank you also goes out to David Meth, one of our devoted YMCA members, who recently facilitated a powerful writing workshop for cancer patients and their caregivers. Through this workshop, David has shown how creative expression, such as journaling, can be just as important to mental well-being as physical exercise. His dedication to providing emotional and mental support to those navigating cancer treatments is deeply appreciated.
PUNCH OUT PARKINSON’S WITH OUR PARKINSON’S BODY & MIND PROGRAM
The Westport Weston YMCA’s Parkinson’s Boxing Program, in partnership with Parkinson’s Body and Mind, has been another tremendous success. Meeting on Mondays and Thursdays, this program offers a dynamic and challenging fitness experience to individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. Over 20 participants attend each class, benefiting from both intense exercise and camaraderie.
We would not be able to offer this transformative program without the tireless support of our volunteers. Special thanks go to: Alice Addicks, Jerry Waldron, Louise Flax, Roberta Delano, Theresa Merrill Anovick, Patrick Whalen, Spyro Christie, Bob Levy, Bob Altbaum, Don Turner, Jack Roberts, Mark Toal, Scott Smith, Bill Vanzetta, Ellise Rose, Lynn Crager, Dan Lewis, and others who regularly volunteer to support our participants with Parkinson’s. These volunteers hold the mitts, assist with exercises, and help create a welcoming, supportive environment for all.
A special thank you also goes to Brenda Waldron, Personal Trainer and Program Lead, for her unwavering commitment to developing a vigorous workout plan each week and for overseeing the efforts of our dedicated volunteers. Her work continues to inspire and elevate the lives of our participants.
GRATITUDE FOR OUR VOLUNTEERS
At the Westport Weston Family YMCA, we are fortunate to have such a vibrant and caring community. Volunteers like Abby, David, Brenda, and all the volunteers of the Parkinson’s Boxing program play an essential role in creating a wellness environment that not only strengthens the body but also nurtures the spirit. We are profoundly grateful for their generosity and the impact they make on our members’ lives.
We look forward to continuing to grow and offer these vital programs with the support of our dedicated volunteers and community.
