#RichlandGives Spotlight: Mansfield Area Y
With the help of Richland Gives, the Mansfield Area Y has been able to implement and maintain a variety of programs such as; Diabetes Prevention Program, LIVESTRONG, Open Doors, and Safety Around Water. We have plans to enhance and continue all of these crucial programs into 2018 thanks to Richland Gives and our generous supporters.
The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program helps those at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes. The program, which is led by a trained Lifestyle Coach, provides a supportive, small group environment where participants work together to learn about healthier eating habits and how an increase in physical activity can reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Research by the National Institutes of Health shows programs such as the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program reduces new cases of type 2 diabetes by 58% overall and over 71% in adults over the age of 60.
The Mansfield YMCA and LIVESTRONG have teamed up to provide a physical activity program for cancer survivors in our community. LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a twelve-week, small group program designed for adult cancer survivors. This program fulfills the important need of supporting the increasing number of cancer survivors who find themselves in the transitional period between completing their cancer treatment and the shift to feeling physically and emotionally strong enough to attempt to return to their normal life or their "new normal". The program is conducted outside of medical facilities to emphasize that LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is about health, not disease.
The Open Doors program offers a fee scale to fit the financial situation of individuals in our community. We believe that everyone in our community should have the opportunity to benefit from YMCA programs and services. We are a community-based nonprofit with the mission to “Help people reach their God-given potential in spirit, mind, and body”. Our Open Doors Program is central to our mission. When someone loses a job, when medical bills become overwhelming, or when other challenging situations occur, people need the support of the Y. We want all people to be involved with the programs and services of the Y that nurture spirit, mind, and body—especially during difficult times when they are needed most.
The Mansfield Area Y has teamed up with Malabar to host Safety Around Water. Fatal drowning is the second-leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children ages one to 14 years old. Last year, 123 children died in Ohio due to drowning. The Y is committed to reducing water-related injuries, particularly in communities where children are most at risk. During National Water Safety Month in May, the Y is introducing Safety Around Water, a program to engage parents about the importance of water safety skills and provide more children access to water safety lessons. As part of the program, the Mansfield Area Y will provide scholarships to children from low-income and underserved communities to participate in free water safety lessons. The lessons teach young people valuable skills like what to do if they find themselves in the water unexpectedly, a situation every child should be equipped to handle.
About the Y
The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Across the U.S., 2,687 Ys engage 21 million men, women, and children – regardless of age, income or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Anchored in more than 10,000 communities, the Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change. For more information visit ymca.net
