Third Thursday August 2025
What Happens When the Y Truly Leans Into a Life-Changing Initiative?
For more than a decade, the Capital District YMCA has been walking alongside individuals and families impacted by Parkinson’s disease. What began with a single program, Pedaling for Parkinson’s, has grown into a powerful commitment to helping people live stronger, healthier, and more connected lives.
Research from the Cleveland Clinic showed that pedaling a bicycle at a rapid pace—80 to 90 revolutions per minute—could reduce symptoms by as much as 35 percent. While not a cure, the evidence was clear: movement matters. We saw firsthand how this program changed lives, and it inspired us to do more.
Over the years, we’ve added programs like Boxing, Neuromotor Wellness, and Ping Pong. Each is designed to improve mobility, build confidence, and bring people together.
Now, we are taking the next step in this journey. This November, we are proud to launch the YMCA Parkinson’s Center at our Wolf Road facility in Colonie. More than just a gym, it will be a dedicated wellness and education hub for the Parkinson’s community. Programs will include Yoga, Dance for PD®, Pedaling for Parkinson’s, Tai Chi, Boxing, Support Groups, Lunch & Learns, and more. To ensure care extends beyond the individual, we’ll also provide YMCA Parkinson’s Center memberships for participants and their families at no cost.
This initiative builds on our legacy of service and represents a bold step forward—putting compassion and innovation at the forefront, and positioning the YMCA to address health disparities head-on.
I was grateful to speak with WNYT about this exciting new chapter while attending the Stand Up to Parkinson’s Annual Golf Classic, where this incredible organization raised nearly $200,000 to support individuals and families living with Parkinson’s. I was also proud to play a round myself in support of such an important cause.
We are thankful for the incredible support we’ve already received from partners like Stand Up to Parkinson’s and the American Parkinson Disease Association. At the same time, we are continuing to seek funders, donors, and community partners who share our vision and want to help us make this center a reality for those who need it most. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me if you'd like to get involved with this exciting new center!
President & CEO
Capital District YMCA
Our Annual Golf Classic at The Edison Club was a huge success, bringing together friends, partners, and supporters to raise critical funds for Capital District YMCA youth programs. Thanks to everyone’s generosity, the event raised over $100,000 to provide summer camp scholarships and child care opportunities for families in need across the Capital Region.
Special thanks to our Title Sponsor, Tri-City Rentals, Lunch Sponsor, Rosetti Properties, and Reception Sponsor, BBL Companies, along with our dedicated Golf Committee volunteers and YMCA staff who made the day possible.