Initiatives
For the past three years, the YMCA has been working with the local Mitchell Wellness Initiative group with the goal of bringing a YMCA and healthy living programs to Mitchell County. In late 2018 the YMCA surveyed the people of Mitchell County to identify the facility and program needs. More than 1,300 people responded with interest in bringing a YMCA to Mitchell County.
While we continue to work towards a physical YMCA in Spruce Pine, the YMCA is delivering several Healthy Living and Community Outreach Programs throughout Mitchell and Yancey Counties. Learn more about our efforts below!
Healthy Living Center Staff
Jessica Thomas
Mitchell County Director of Healthy Living
Williams YMCA of Avery County
Katie Willett
Mitchell County Associate Executive Director
Williams YMCA of Avery CountyHealthy Living Programs
Healthy Living Programs are low or no-cost evidence-based programs that help adults prevent the onset of chronic conditions or diseases. They can also help adults with chronic diseases learn how to manage and improve their health. Programs include interactive activities that promote healthy and active lifestyles and focus on common problems individuals may deal with every day. These programs aim to improve your quality of life while helping reduce healthcare costs by preventing or minimizing the effects of a disease.
Contact Jessica Thomas for more information or to register for an upcoming Healthy Living Program.
Delay The Disease for Parkinson’s PatientsEnhanceFitnessYMCA’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program Arthritis Foundation’s Walk With Ease Program Future Programming
Delay the Disease – Parkinson’s Program
We are thrilled that we are able to offer this program, with limited numbers, inside. Research suggests that intense exercise results in neuroprotection & thereby slows, stops, or reverses the progression of Parkinson’s disease symptoms. Coordination of movement, flexibility, strength, cardiorespiratory fitness and balance is the focus.
Where: Mitchell County Healthy Living Center
When: Tuesday & Thursday 12:00-1:00 PM
Who: Free for anyone diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease
Know of someone with Parkinson’s Disease who could benefit from exercising with others just like them? Contact Jessica Thomas.
Enhance®Fitness
A proven arthritis management program focused on fitness. Helping older adults become more active, energized, and empowered for independent living. The program focuses on cardiovascular endurance, strength, flexibility, and balance, which could help reduce the severity of arthritis symptoms in a group that is supportive and understanding – a vital part of anyone’s health and well-being. Enhance®Fitness has been nationally recognized by the CDC, Department of Health & Human Services, Department on Aging, and the National Council on Aging.
Where: Mitchell County Healthy Living Center
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays;
Who: Anyone who has been diagnosed with arthritis or other mobility limitations
Start Dates:
January 8th, 2024
For more information or to register, contact Jessica Thomas, Mitchell County Healthy Living Director.
YMCA’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring
According to the American Heart Association, nearly 80 million adults have high blood pressure in this country. Less than half have it under control. The YMCA’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring program encourages participants to track their blood pressure at least once a week while making manageable lifestyle changes to lower their blood pressure. Participants meet with a Heart Healthy Ambassador to monitor their progress, ask questions, and learn about healthy changes they can make to their diet.
This 16-week program includes support from trained Heart Healthy Ambassadors, Nutrition Seminars, and other materials to make tracking your blood pressure easier.
Due to COVID-19 all Nutrition Seminars will be offered virtually, contact your Heart Healthy Ambassador for more information.
Where: Neighbors Feeding Neighbors
When: Tuesday Mornings; 10:00 – 11:00 am
Who: Adults who have been diagnosed with High Blood Pressure and have not had a recent cardiac event in the past 6 months.
Cost: Offered at no cost upon registration. Blood Pressure Cuffs are available upon request for $25 per participant.
Walk With Ease
Arthritis Foundation Evidence-Based Program for anyone with any form of Arthritis who wants to be more active and can stand for 10 minutes or longer. Lead by trained instructor(s) who are certified by the Arthritis Foundation. Class dates to be determined.
For more information, contact Jessica Thomas, Mitchell County Healthy Living Director.
Stay Tuned For Future Program Offerings
Be on the lookout for opportunities to join:
- The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program – Prevent T2 (English and Spanish Offerings Coming Soon!)
- YMCA’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program in Spanish
For more information, contact Jessica Thomas, Senior Program Director.
Group Exercise Classes
Group Exercise Classes Coming Soon!
For the most up-to-date information, join our Mitchell County Mailing List to receive regular updates regarding upcoming programs and class offerings!
Contact Katie Willett for more information.
