|
 I joined the YMCA for one reason; to lose weight. However, at the time, change was difficult as excuses deterred me. I just had to stop what I was doing and change my thinking. I began by focusing on bad habits like smoking, alcohol, and my diet. My journey did not consist simply of weight loss but encompassed a desire to maintain a healthy lifestyle moving forward for myself and my family.
Packing lunches in the morning became a family routine paying close attention to calories and nutrition. I halted daily fast food and now eating healthier, homemade meals is a commonality
are the norm with almost no difference in cost, surprisingly.
Increasing my physical activity radically changed my lifestyle, but it came gradually. I started walking 20 minutes two or three times a week at low speed. Next, I moved on to 20 minutes per day, and now I walk at least 40 minutes twice a day at higher speed and intensity.
My family's visits to the YMCA truly highlight our week. We enjoy time together losing weight and building strength. Becoming more familiar with the Y has allowed us to fully avail ourselves of the programs and services offered by our membership.
When embarking on a lifestyle change of this magnitude, it's important to have a person to whom you are accountable. My wife, for one, deserves the vital, strong, healthy man she married-nothing less. My children need to see their father as a role model and not a cautionary tale. They need to know it's never too late to change.
Ultimately, I am accountable to myself and God. My prayer is simply one of thanks for the life He has given me. It's not elaborate-it's not filled with pomp or ceremony. Usually it's just a look to the sky and a single word, "Thanks." I shall try every day to earn just one more.
-Scott Kuesal |
|
|
|
 The LIVESTRONG Community Impact Project awarded the YMCA of the Inland Northwest a $3,500 grant to introduce programming and resources to cancer survivors. Those who retain the desire to challenge their condition with positive surroundings, physical strength, and a rock-solid mentality can do so with the help of Y staff trained in supportive cancer care as well as their supportive peers. LIVESTRONG was created by the Lance Armstrong Foundation, a non-profit founded by the cycling icon and cancer survivor. This cause aims to reach 90 communities across the United States with support programs that encourage cancer survivors to take action. Read More about Livestrong on our blog ymcaspokane.org/blog |
Having fun and staying active are two sides of the same coin. We want everyone to join us Saturday, April 28, from 9:30am* - Noon for our annual Healthy Kids Day. Each YMCA facility will feature a variety of snacks, activities, and education centered around health.
Begin with an hour of Zumba to get the family warmed up then choose from sports for all ages led by First Tee at the North YMCA or Hip Hop classes led by Shock cheerleaders at the Central and Valley Ys. For children 6 and younger, Central will hold tumbling classes while Valley will feature Romp, Stomp and Snack.
Over 400 participated in last year's Healthy Kids Day, so don't miss out on the Y's national initiative to improve the health and well-being of kids. Visit ymcaspokane.org for further details. This event is free and open to everyone.
*Family Zumba begins at 9am at the Central YMCA |
|
Please join us for the Y's 8th annual Celebrate Teens event May 8th, at the Lincoln Center's Monroe Ballroom from 4 - 6pm.
High school students and community leaders will get a chance to learn from one another and discuss issues important to today's teens in a casual, fun atmosphere!
there will be performances by talented local musicians, dancers, and the popular Havermale Drummers. Last year's session included representatives from United Way, Spokane Valley Fire Department, numerous local businesses, and many more.
Attendees must be 14 or older and must RSVP by April 27. Refreshments and appetizers will be provided. Attire is business casual.
RSVP here by April 27
www.ymcaspokane.org/celebrateteens
|
|
|
 | |  | |
FAMILY HOME CARE
Headquartered in Spokane, Family Home Care & Hospice has met the needs of thousands of patients and their families for over 46 years. Our Housecalls program means a convenient doctor's visit at home, while Home Care services aid families in need of living assistance. Home Health gives patients post-surgery attention and our Hospice program gives kind comfort to patients with only a short time left.
FHC answers the call with a legacy of award-winning quality and recognized leadership in our industry. As we always say, we'll come to you - because we care!
 We treat our employees with the same care and respect as our patients, offering fully funded wellness benefits through Employee Assistance, which focuses on mental health among others. Our health plan includes a smoking cessation benefit and health coaches who implement and oversee personal wellness plans. In addition, we maintain a corporate membership with the YMCA to provide our employees with various locations for discounted gym memberships.
FHC introduced a subsidized low-cost snack vending program to provide healthy alternatives in our lunch room. We sponsor sports teams, walking teams, and marathon teams made up of FHC employees. The installation of on-site bike racks and showers encourages break-time exercise. Lastly, our annual benefits fair welcomes in wellness vendors to educate staff.
| |  | |  |
 | |  | | A Healthy Employee is a Productive Employee
Employers in Spokane and across the United States have long known the high cost of employing unhealthy employees. With rising health insurance rates and the push to do more with less, the health of workers is becoming a pivotal piece in any company's productivity.
The YMCA can partner with your company to promote healthy lifestyles for your employees and their families. The best way for us to serve you is to understand your goals and company culture. We can then create a personalized plan that can include the following on-site:
- Group Exercise Classes
- Health Assessments including body fat testing
- Fitness Evaluations
- Wellness Coaches
- YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program
- Small Group Training Corporate Team Building
- Nutritional Classes and Cooking Workshops
- Corporate Stretching Programs
- Lunch and Learn Workshops
- Nutritional Meal Choices Designed for your Employees
- Workplace Ergonomics
- Bloomsday Corporate Cup Training
For more information on how to partner with the Y, contact Eric Denny at 509 777 YMCA (9622) or edenney@ymcaspokane.org | |  | |  |
| | | |
Greenhouse Sale At the Spokane Valley YMCA
Come stock up on your favorite flowers and plants. Petunias, Zinnia, Snap Dragon, Tomato, Cabbage and many more.
Spokane Valley YMCA
April 28 - June 30
Wednesdays 2-6:30pm
Saturdays 10am - 3pm
| | | | |
|
|
