MetroWest YMCA

MetroWest YMCA Offers Free Diabetes Prevention Program During National Diabetes Prevention Month

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November 1, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


 

Contact: Lauren Hanley

Associate Executive Director, Healthy Living

LaurenHanley@metrowestymca.org

508-879-4420 ext. 239

 
MetroWest YMCA Offers Free Programs to Prevent and Manage Chronic Conditions
Free Diabetes Prevention Program Offered During National Diabetes Awareness Month
Framingham, MA — This November, to coincide with National Diabetes Awareness Month, the MetroWest YMCA is spotlighting its free Diabetes Prevention Program, which empowers community members at risk of type 2 diabetes to take control of their health. This program is part of the Y’s commitment to health and wellness, which includes a variety of evidence-based, no-cost programs for individuals managing conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, and Parkinson’s disease.
“Our Diabetes Prevention Program is a transformative resource for so many in our community,” said Jesse Potter, Dir. of Evidence-Based and Older Adult Programs at MetroWest YMCA. “With diabetes affecting over a third of U.S. adults, supporting preventive health education is more crucial than ever.”
Diabetes Prevention Program Details
As part of its mission to enhance community well-being, the MetroWest YMCA offers a year-long Diabetes Prevention Program starting November 13. Designed for individuals ages 18 and up who have symptoms of prediabetes, this program provides the knowledge and support needed to lower their risk of type 2 diabetes. Sessions will take place on Wednesdays from 6-7 pm at the Framingham Branch. 
Participants will receive guidance on:
  • Healthy eating and diabetes-specific meal planning
  • Lifestyle-aligned physical activity
  • Weight management strategies
  • Understanding diabetes' impact on overall health
This supportive program encourages participants to share experiences and motivate each other. This program is free thanks to funding from Springwell, the MA Executive Office of Elder Affairs, and the Federal Administration for Community Living. Participants also receive a complimentary 3-month YMCA membership to help them stay active and engaged.
According to the Alliance of Massachusetts YMCAs, every year, more than 33,400 Massachusetts adults are diagnosed with diabetes. Programs like this are essential to reversing this trend and helping people prevent diabetes from becoming a lifelong condition.
Program Start Date: November 13, 6-7 PM
For details or to register, contact Jesse Potter at jpotter@metrowestymca.org.
Additional Free Health Programs Beginning Soon:
Beyond diabetes prevention, the MetroWest YMCA offers:
  • Parkinson's Disease Wellness Programs: Four exercise classes and a monthly social support program for individuals with Parkinson's and other neuromuscular conditions are offered free of charge to participants thanks to contributions to and support from the MetroWest YMCA’s Pete Donahue Parkinson's Scholarship Fund. 
  • Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program: This ongoing, four-month program helps participants lower their blood pressure through regular monitoring and nutrition education. Funding for this initiative comes through the Massachusetts State Alliance of YMCAs’ partnership with CVS.
  • LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA: This 12-week program supports cancer survivors in rebuilding their strength and improving their well-being through safe, structured physical activity. It is offered free of charge to participants, largely thanks to generous donations made to the MetroWest YMCA’s Annual Campaign and a grant from the Framingham Union Aid Association. The next class begins in January.
These programs exemplify the MetroWest YMCA’s dedication to providing accessible, evidence-based health support to help individuals live healthier lives.
For more details or to register, visit MetroWestYMCA.org or contact Jesse Potter at jpotter@metrowestymca.org.
About MetroWest YMCA
The MetroWest YMCA is a charitable organization committed to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Y believes in helping individuals of all ages achieve healthier lives by providing programs that nurture their physical, mental, and social well-being.
 
Locations
Framingham Branch

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