Metro YMCA of the Oranges Launching Veterans Wellness Initiative Beginning in April

By: Mollie Shauger | Tuesday, February 25, 2025 | News

Family embraces mom in military uniform.

Free 12-week program provides military service members and their families access to health and wellness opportunities at the Y

LIVINGSTON AND SPARTA, NJ - The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges is launching the Veterans Wellness Initiative, a popular YMCA Pathway program, for the first time at the West Essex and Sussex County YMCAs. Beginning the week of April 7, the free Veterans Pathway program will meet weekly for in-person exercise and wellness, led by a personal trainer, and virtually to discuss their health in mind, body and spirit.

Open to active military, military veterans, and/or a spouse or partner, the free 12-week Veterans Pathway program provides participants access to health and wellness opportunities, as well as meaningful social connection with those who share the bond of military service. Participants benefit from free access to the Y360 virtual wellness platform, family membership to the Y during the 12-week session, and an additional six month individual adult membership following successful completion of the program.

“One of the most important aspects of the Y’s mission is to be there for our communities where we are most needed,” said Richard K. Gorab, President and CEO of the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges. “Donor-supported programs like the Veterans Wellness Initiative create unique opportunities for social connection and wellness in ways only the Y can provide. I am thrilled to introduce this vital program in our Ys so it may benefit the honored members and retirees of our military.”

The Veterans Wellness Initiative began in 2015 at the Doylestown branch of the YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties as a way to create community and wellness opportunities for Bucks County veterans. Since then, the free, donor-supported Pathway program has expanded to other NJ branches, serving over 650 veterans and their families. 

“During the 12 week course, we were involved in class on balance, nutrition, tai-chi, mental health, working out with the [tension] bands, stretching and the circuit course, as well as other weight machines,” said retired Marine John Papson, a graduate of the Veterans program. “The program not only gives you the proper form for the exercise but you learn from others via the Zoom calls and become a small family. Personally, I unlocked the determination that had somehow disappeared over the years and it feels great!”

The programs will meet for evening and daytime sessions at both West Essex and Sussex County YMCAs. In addition to weekly connections and conversations, participants will have access to other valuable resources to support a healthy lifestyle. 

For more information and schedule details, visit https://www.metroymcas.org/veterans or reach out to Alma Dhuyvetter at Sussex County YMCA, or Barbara Santola at West Essex YMCA, or call 973-758-9039.

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ABOUT THE Y

Established in 1885, the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges invests in its diverse communities to promote wellness, safety, and quality of life for children, adults, and seniors. Its six branches in East Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, New Milford, Hardyston, and Stillwater are committed to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living, and fostering a sense of social responsibility through an array of programs. Some 35,000 people belong to the Metro Y, which awards more than $2 million annually in direct and indirect financial assistance.