From left to right: Tyrone Williams, Jr., Monte James, Clarence Jackson Jr., and Richard M. Kopec attend the Veterans Wellness Initiative graduation ceremony on July 27 at the Park Street YMCA.
MONTCLAIR, N.J. — The YMCA of Montclair celebrated the first graduating class of its Veterans Wellness Initiative during a special ceremony held July 27 at the Park Street YMCA.
The free program engaged seven U.S. military veterans, along with participating family members, in activities designed to strengthen physical health, mental well-being, and social connection.
The Veterans Wellness Initiative was launched in 2015 at River Crossing YMCA’s Doylestown branch to build community and expand wellness opportunities for veterans in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Since then, the donor-supported program has been replicated at other YMCAs and has served more than 650 veterans and their families. The initiative made its Montclair debut in April.
“As a Senior Veteran, I take a great deal of pride in my service to our great country,” said Richard M. Kopec of Clifton. “When there are programs like this YMCA Veterans Wellness Program, I feel a deep sense of gratitude and acknowledgment toward my mental well-being. This program, much like many activities I have experienced at the Y, put me back on a revived track of mental and physical fitness. My weight is down due to a better diet, exercise routine, and refraining from alcohol. As you get older, you need a few more helping hands for motivation and participation, and this program provided exactly that renewal. Special thanks to Monte James, the program lead, whose exceptional leadership, encouragement, and genuine care made a meaningful difference in keeping us motivated and engaged throughout the program. In addition, the sharing and camaraderie we developed amongst ourselves was truly great.”
The 12-week Veterans Wellness Initiative gives participants access to health and wellness resources while fostering connections among those who share the bond of military service. Benefits include access to the Y Wellness 24/7 virtual platform, a family membership during the 12-week session, and an additional six-month individual adult membership upon successful completion of the program.
Sessions focus on overall well-being and include nutrition seminars and exercise training led by Program Coordinator Monte James and YMCA personal trainers Mercedes Moore and Matthew Geevarghese. The inaugural session began April 27 at the Park Street YMCA and concluded July 27.
“As a senior citizen and an Air Force veteran for more than fifty years, I’ve spent many years in physical therapy due to sports injuries, falls on snow-covered ice, and the natural effects of aging,” stated Clarence Jackson Jr. of Montclair. “The workouts Monte, Mercedes, and Matthew put us through truly embodied the saying — what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. They challenged me in ways I hadn’t experienced in years, while always encouraging me to keep moving forward. After completing the 12-week YMCA Veterans Wellness Initiative, I can honestly say I haven’t felt this good since graduating from Air Force Basic Training. This program has improved my strength, flexibility, and overall well-being, and I’m truly grateful for the experience.”
Planning is underway for the YMCA of Montclair’s next Veterans Wellness Initiative cohort as the organization continues its commitment to supporting veterans’ health, wellness, and connection.
“Through the Veterans Wellness Initiative, the YMCA of Montclair is proud to serve and support those who have served our country,” said Buddy Evans, President and CEO of the YMCA of Montclair. “We look forward to continuing this program and providing meaningful opportunities for veterans to connect, stay active, and feel supported in our community.”
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ABOUT THE YMCA OF MONTCLAIR
Established in 1891, the YMCA of Montclair welcomes all. We are a nonprofit organization that works to empower young people, improve health and well-being, and inspire action in and across our community. The Y offers need-based financial assistance for its programs to help ensure access for all. We proudly serve Bloomfield, Bloomingdale, Cedar Grove, Clifton, Glen Ridge, Haskell, Montclair, Verona, Wanaque, and West Milford. For more information, visit montclairymca.org.
