This post is sponsored and contributed by River Crossing YMCA, a Patch Brand Partner.

Community Corner

YMCA Announces Free Fall Wellness Programs for Vets and Teens in Bethlehem

The Free Military Veterans Wellness Initiative; Empower U and Stand up for teens include complimentary YMCA memberships

(River Crossing YMCA)

This is a paid post contributed by a Patch Community Partner. The views expressed in this post are the author's own, and the information presented has not been verified by Patch.


BETHLEHEM, PA - River Crossing YMCA is currently enrolling for the free fall health and wellness programs at its branch at 430 East Broad St. in Bethlehem. These include the Veterans Wellness Initiative for retired or active military Veterans, as well as two free programs for teens: Empower U for girls and Stand Up for boys.

Enrollment for the three free, donor-supported pathway programs closes the week of Sept. 7 with the start of each weekly program beginning the week of Sept. 14. Enrollment is open to the community and participants do not need to be members of the Y.

The Veterans Wellness Initiative program runs for 12 weeks and includes in-person personal training each week along with a weekly virtual meeting to provide support and additional information on nutrition and mindfulness. Participants receive a family membership to the Y for the duration of the program. Upon completion of the program, graduates receive an additional six month adult membership.

“The program is a kickstart and energizer for veterans to get back into a healthy routine alongside others,” explained Anthony Guerrero, a recent graduate of the Veterans Pathway program. “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.” (photo courtesy River Crossing YMCA)

Empower U (girls) and Stand Up (boys) are free, donor-supported 6-week wellness programs for teens age 12-15, designed to strengthen self-esteem, positive relationships and self-reliance. The programs include fitness, classes and topical discussions, along with a two month membership to the Y during the program.

(photo courtesy River Crossing YMCA)

River Crossing YMCA Pathway Wellness programs are made possible by the generosity of YMCA donors, and the instructors are certified YMCA trainers with special training in providing for the specific needs of each program and the individual participants. For more information about all River Crossing YMCA Pathway programs, please visit ymcarivercrossing.org/pathways.

River Crossing YMCA (formerly YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties and Greater Valley YMCA) is a charitable, nonprofit organization committed to strengthening communities through membership and programs that foster youth development, healthy living and social responsibility for all. Annually, the Y serves over 100,000 members and participants at its 11 member branches, 12 early childhood centers, 20 summer camp locations and 44 school age child care programs. River Crossing YMCA provides over $12 million of community impact annually in the form of financial assistance to individuals and families in need and free programming for veterans, cancer survivors, older adults and more. To learn more visit ymcarivercrossing.org


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This post is sponsored and contributed by River Crossing YMCA, a Patch Brand Partner.