Program works with non-profits, community organizations to promote wellness
Albany, N.Y.– The Capital District YMCA today announced the launch of its new Healthy Meetings and Events Policy program, which is designed to promote wellness and support healthy lifestyles in high risk communities.
Through the initiative, staff from the Capital District YMCA is working closely with Capital Region non-profit organizations, community groups and businesses to encourage healthy behaviors at meetings, such as offering water and fresh fruit instead of sugary drinks and cookies.
Participating groups are also encouraged to schedule breaks during long meetings and to hold meetings at locations that offer attendees the opportunity to either walk to the gathering or during a break.
“The Capital District YMCA is focused on reaching out to the community to promote wellness and healthy lifestyles,” said David Brown, CEO of the Capital District YMCA, who is currently celebrating his 20th anniversary with the non-profit. “The new Healthy Meetings and Events initiative fits seamlessly with our goals and we’re excited about the future as we expand this policy throughout the Capital Region.”
In addition to the Capital District YMCA, local groups that have adopted the policy include: A Village, Inc.; Centro Civico; Healthy Capital District Initiative; SOMOS El Futuro; Life Craft Foundation Inc.; South End Neighborhood Association; and the Albany City Clerk’s Office.
“We found it important to adopt the Healthy Meetings and Events initiative because we believe that a healthy community is a happy community,” said Willie White, Executive Director of A Village, Inc. “We are grateful to the Capital District YMCA for launching this program.”
The Healthy Meetings and Events Policy program suggests the following to organizations and businesses interested in promoting wellness amongst their members and staff:
- Serve vegetables and fruit more often;
- Always include water as a beverage option;
- Offer low-fat dairy products and alternatives;
- Provide a variety of whole grain breads, cereals and pastas;
- Consider smaller portion sizes when serving meals, or cut items like muffins, bagels or sandwiches in half;
- Purchase locally grown foods when available and choose items that are in-season, as they are fresher and more cost-effective;
- Include physical activity to help reduce stress and fatigue;
- Identify restaurants or caterers where healthy choices are available and ask caterers what local healthy foods they can supply.
The Capital District YMCA Healthy Meeting and Events Policy program is funded by a grant from the Sam’s Club Healthier Communities Initiative.
About Capital District YMCA
The Capital District YMCA is one of the 35 largest YMCA associations in the country and one of the largest membership-based community service organizations in the capital region. The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits, strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Y nurtures the potential in children and teens, improves the nation’s health and well-being, and provides opportunities to give back and support neighbors. For more information, visit www.CDYMCA.org or call 518.869.3500.