Third Thursday November 2025

PARTNERSHIP PAVES THE WAY FORWARD

On Tuesday night, more than 150 people gathered to celebrate the official opening of the Parkinson’s Center YMCA. It was a powerful reminder that community transformation never happens by accident. It begins with an idea. That idea grows into a movement. And when the right people come together to do the work, that movement becomes action.

The Parkinson’s Center YMCA is the result of exactly that kind of shared vision. It took partners who believed in what was possible, who were willing to get involved, raise capital, and trust that together we could build something meaningful for thousands of families in the Capital Region. What we celebrated last night was not just a ribbon-cutting. It was a testament to what collaboration, courage, and commitment can accomplish.

I want to extend my deepest thanks to our partners who walked alongside us and made this Center a reality. Your dedication has created a new model of support for individuals living with Parkinson’s, and your impact will reach far beyond our walls:

• Stand Up to Parkinson's
• HELP for Parkinson's
• American Parkinson's Disease Association
• Mike and Janet Hamel

I also want to thank our incredible staff for their work in re-imagining 98 Wolf Road. In particular, I want to recognize Toni Carroll and Tovah Lisky, whose vision and tireless work have built the community relationships and program networks that allow us to offer such a wide range of services at no cost to members. Their passion and persistence have been central to bringing this Center to life.

What we opened last night is more than a facility. It is a place of hope, movement, and belonging... and it exists because our community came together to make it so.

Thank you for being part of this moment. The work continues, and I am grateful we are doing it together.

President & CEO

Capital District YMCA