River Crossing YMCA Expands Free Community Pathway Programs to Lehigh Valley

ALLENTOWN - River Crossing YMCA has opened enrollment for three free, donor-supported community Pathway health and wellness programs in the Lehigh Valley this fall.

Following the success of the free 12-week Veterans Wellness Pathway program for military Veterans at the Allentown branch, the Y is introducing the THRIVE Cancer Wellness Pathway program for adults surviving cancer and the Healthy Lifestyles Pathway program, a chronic disease prevention program, both in Allentown. The Y is also expanding the Veterans Wellness program to the Nazareth branch. YMCA Pathway programs are free to participants and open to the entire community. One need not be a member of the Y to enroll. The Y is taking enrollments through Sept. 15, and classes begin Sept. 22. More information about enrolling can be found on our Pathways webpage.  

“The program is a kick start and energizer for Veterans to get back into a fitness routine alongside others,” explained Anthony Guerrero, a recent graduate of the Veterans Wellness pathway program in Allentown. “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.”

The Veterans Wellness Pathway program includes weekly in-person personal training, along with virtual meetings to provide support, nutrition and mindfulness coaching. Participants are active, retired or honorably discharged members of the US Military, or a spouse/partner, and receive a family membership to the Y for the duration of the program. Upon completion, graduates receive an additional six-month adult membership.

Healthy Lifestyles is a 12-week program designed to help prevent chronic diseases including obesity, hypertension, Type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease. The 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, beginning Sept. 22 at the Allentown branch.

“The Healthy Lifestyles program changed my life,” shared Lisa Monahan, a Healthy Lifestyles graduate in Doylestown. “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.”

Also running in Allentown, THRIVE Cancer Wellness is the free 12-week Pathway 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.

“I had cancer and signed up for the program when it came here,” shared Cheryl Frustieri (left), a recent graduate of the THRIVE Cancer Wellness Pathway program in Flemington, NJ. “I wasn’t sure what I was getting into, but it is scary to have cancer, so to be around other women who had breast cancer gave me a sense of community and comfort so I needn’t feel so alone.”

 “It is our mission to improve the health and wellness of individuals and families throughout the Lehigh Valley,” said Crystal Messer, VP of operations for the Lehigh Valley region of River Crossing YMCA.  “We look forward to continuing the expansion of these valuable programs at our branches.”

In 2024 over 2,000 individuals and families participated in free, donor-supported River Crossing YMCA Pathway programs. programs are open and free to the community. Participants need not be members of the Y to enroll, and are invited to inquire on the Y’s Community Impact & Pathway Programs webpage.
 

Photo caption: 

Anthony Guerrero continues to work out at the Allentown branch of River Crossing YMCA following his graduation from the free, 12-week Veterans Wellness Pathway program.