Initiatives
For the past three years, the YMCA has been working with the local Mitchell Wellness Initiative group with the goal of bringing a YMCA and healthy living programs to Mitchell County. In late 2018 the YMCA surveyed the people of Mitchell County to identify the facility and program needs. More than 1,300 people responded with interest in bringing a YMCA to Mitchell County.
While we continue to work towards a physical YMCA in Spruce Pine, the YMCA is delivering several Healthy Living and Community Outreach Programs throughout Mitchell and Yancey Counties. Learn more about our efforts below!
Healthy Living Center Staff
Jessica Thomas
Mitchell County Director of Healthy Living
Williams YMCA of Avery CountyHealthy Living Programs
Healthy Living Programs are low or no-cost evidence-based programs that help adults prevent the onset of chronic conditions or diseases. They can also help adults with chronic diseases learn how to manage and improve their health. Programs include interactive activities that promote healthy and active lifestyles and focus on common problems individuals may deal with every day. These programs aim to improve your quality of life while helping reduce healthcare costs by preventing or minimizing the effects of a disease.
Contact Jessica Thomas for more information or to register for an upcoming Healthy Living Program.
Healthy Aging programming at the Mitchell County Healthy Living Center is presented by Hopscotch Primary Care, which offers accessible healthcare for Medicare adults in rural communities. Learn more about the partnership here.
Delay the Disease – Parkinson’s Program
We are thrilled that we are able to offer this program, with limited numbers, inside. Research suggests that intense exercise results in neuroprotection & thereby slows, stops, or reverses the progression of Parkinson’s disease symptoms. Coordination of movement, flexibility, strength, cardiorespiratory fitness and balance is the focus.
Where: Mitchell County Healthy Living Center
When: Tuesday & Thursday 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Who: Free for anyone diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease
Know of someone with Parkinson’s Disease who could benefit from exercising with others just like them? Contact Jessica Thomas.
Enhance®Fitness
A proven arthritis management program focused on fitness. Helping older adults become more active, energized, and empowered for independent living. The program focuses on cardiovascular endurance, strength, flexibility, and balance, which could help reduce the severity of arthritis symptoms in a group that is supportive and understanding – a vital part of anyone’s health and well-being. Enhance®Fitness has been nationally recognized by the CDC, Department of Health & Human Services, Department on Aging, and the National Council on Aging.
Where: Mitchell County Healthy Living Center
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays;
Who: Anyone who has been diagnosed with arthritis or other mobility limitations
Start Dates:
January 8th, 2024
For more information or to register, contact Jessica Thomas, Mitchell County Healthy Living Director.
Stay Tuned For Future Program Offerings
Be on the lookout for opportunities to join:
- The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program – Prevent T2 (English and Spanish Offerings Coming Soon!)
- YMCA’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program (English and Spanish Offerings Coming Soon!)
- Arthritis Foundation’s Walk With Ease Program
For more information, contact Jessica Thomas, Senior Program Director.
