The Gateway Family YMCA Announces Fall 2026 Veterans Wellness Initiative

The Gateway Family YMCA is now registering participants for Fall 2026 sessions of its free Veterans Wellness Initiative, with classes available at YMCA locations in Elizabeth, Rahway and Union.

Designed specifically to support the health, wellness and social connection of the military community, the Veterans Wellness Initiative is open to military veterans and their spouse or partner. The free 12-week program combines in-person exercise and wellness activities led by YMCA wellness professionals with opportunities for participants to connect, build relationships and support one another through the shared bond of military service.

Subscribe

"The Veterans Wellness Initiative is about so much more than exercise. It provides a welcoming community where veterans and their families can focus on their overall well-being while building meaningful connections with others who understand their experiences," said Susan Butler, Director of Community Wellness for The Gateway Family YMCA. "We are excited to welcome new participants to our Fall sessions in Elizabeth, Rahway and Union."

Throughout the 12-week program, participants explore a variety of activities and wellness topics supporting mind, body and spirit, including balance, nutrition, tai chi, mental health, resistance-band exercises, stretching, circuit training and strength equipment. Small-group discussions and shared experiences provide additional opportunities for connection and support.

In addition to weekly programming, participants receive 24-hour access to YMCA360, the Y's virtual wellness platform, and an adult couple membership to The Gateway Family YMCA during the 12-week session. Following successful completion of the program, participants also receive an additional six-month individual adult YMCA membership, helping them continue the healthy habits and connections developed during the program.

The Veterans Wellness Initiative was created to address the unique wellness needs of veterans and military families by reducing barriers to health and wellness resources while creating opportunities for connection and belonging.

Fall 2026 classes are now registering at the following Gateway Family YMCA locations:Elizabeth Branch, 135 Madison Avenue, Elizabeth, Rahway Branch, 1564 Irving Street, Rahway

Wellness Center Branch, 1000 Galloping Hill Road, Union.

Space is limited and interested veterans and their spouses or partners are encouraged to register or request additional information by visiting tgfymca.org/contact-us or emailing veterans@tgfymca.org.

The Gateway Family YMCA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the foundations of community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Serving eastern Union County and northern Middlesex County since 1900, The Gateway Family YMCA connects individuals and families to opportunities that strengthen health and well-being, foster belonging and help all people reach their full potential.

In addition to the Veterans Wellness Initiative, The Gateway Family YMCA participates in the Military Family Membership program through the Department of Defense and Military OneSource – providing free memberships to military families in the local community.

For more information about The Gateway Family YMCA, visit tgfymca.org or contact the Elizabeth Branch at 908-355-9622, Rahway Branch at 732-388-0057, Wellness Center Branch in Union at 908-349-9622, or veterans@tgfymca.org.