North Brooklyn YMCA recognizes its members

When Adriana Castro joined the Y seven months ago, she had been recently diagnosed with breast cancer, had undergone a mastectomy and needed support. She also needed to develop a healthy active lifestyle for herself as well as for her family.

Through the Y, Adrianna has found more than just a place to exercise and recover. She has discovered a group of friends with whom she meets with regularly for group exercise, a place for her three children where they can learn and make friends and an opportunity to give back on her road to becoming cancer free.

“At the Y, we exist to strengthen community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. When people like Adriana join the Y, they become part of something that gives them the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive, while also making their community healthier and happier”, said Michael Keller, VP Operations and executive director

On Saturday, July 16, residents of Cypress Hills and the surrounding communities celebrated the summer together as a Y family when the branch held its eighth Annual Member Appreciation Day.

Hundreds of community residents attended the event themed “Get Connected” where in addition to Adriana, 15 other community members were recognized for overcoming obstacles while making outstanding personal change. The day also featured a blood drive, interactive activities and games for the entire family, several program demonstrations, a talent showcase, community resources, art activities, and music and dance entertainment.

The North Brooklyn YMCA helps thousands of children and adults take charge of their health, spend quality time together as a family, develop relationships with neighbors, learn new skills, improve their grades and enjoy a laugh with staff and other members.

Through its recently launched YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program (YDPP), a 16-session lifestyle intervention program the Y helps people at high risk for developing Type 2 diabetes prevent the disease through healthy eating, increased activity and other positive lifestyle changes.

Additionally, the branch offers a free Salsa Sabor y Salud program, which assists Hispanic families with children 12 and under to make healthy choices for eating and incorporate activity into their daily lives, getting the whole family involved to achieve greater health and well-being.