Published: 03/27/2026 - 9:00 AM
Conshohocken, PA — The Ambler, Haverford, Rocky Run, and Spring Valley YMCAs are calling on local veterans to apply for their free Veterans Wellness Program. The program runs April 26 through July 19, 2026, and is designed around holistic well-being, with both physical and mental health components. Participants will meet twice weekly, focusing on physical fitness one day, and mental health the next.
“We partner with some great organizations, such as the Travis Manion Foundation, Access Services and NAMI, who facilitate great discussions around mental health. We also have a dietitian who educates participants on healthy eating and lifestyle changes”, says Patrick Resnick, Associate Executive Director of the Spring Valley YMCA, who helps run the program.
Richard Custer, a local veteran who was wounded 5 times in Vietnam and now serves as a Commander of the Disabled American Veterans, was a participant in the inaugural cohort this past spring. “I’d had a stroke two years ago, so I've been constantly trying to rebuild… And the wellness program has given me an opportunity to do things that I never would have done. This type of program, that's specific to veterans, is outstanding.”
WHY IT MATTERS:
- The CDC reports 30% of veterans aged 25-64 have multiple chronic conditions vs 18% of the public.
- In 2014, the Department of Veterans Affairs estimated that 78% of veterans were overweight or obese
- Many veterans suffer from mental health challenges, driving an alarming 17.6 veterans (on average) to commit suicide daily.
Applications are currently being accepted for the next cohorts at the Ambler, Haverford, Rocky Run, and Spring Valley YMCAs. The program begins the week of April 26 and runs through the week of July 19, 2026. Meetings run 45 – 60 minutes in length, and spouses and partners are welcome to participate. Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a free 6-month adult membership to the YMCA. To apply, click the button below.