Published: 08/10/2026 - 8:00 AM
PHILADELPHIA, PA — August 10, 2026 — The Greater Philadelphia YMCA announced that registration is open for the fall session of its Veterans Wellness Program, a free 12-week program designed to help local veterans and their families reconnect with their health through fitness, community, and wellness resources. The new session begins the week of September 14, 2026, with registration open now.
The Veterans Wellness Program supports veterans — along with a designated support person of their choosing — in staying active and engaged. Participants receive a complimentary Y family membership for the duration of the program, along with programming tailored specifically to veterans’ needs.
Over the course of the 12-week program, participants can expect:
- A complimentary Y family membership for the length of the program
- One virtual, educational meeting and one in-person group workout each week
- Twice-weekly, hourlong meetings focused on fitness, mental health, mindfulness, nutrition, and overall well-being
- Access to virtual content including live and on-demand workouts, cooking demos, and more
- Pre- and post-program surveys to help participants set goals and measure results
- A free six-month adult membership to the Y upon successful completion of the program, based on attendance
“Our veterans have given so much, and this program is one way we can give back — by meeting them where they are and walking alongside them on their health journey,” said Aimee Smith, Executive Director of Programs and Aquatics of the Greater Philadelphia YMCA. “We’re proud to open our doors, at no cost, to the veterans and military families who call this region home.”
"Military is a family. This program recreates that — the brotherhood, the structure, the discipline," said Art Crastenberg, a 26 year Army veteran and program participant. "It's familiar, and it works."
The program is offered at four YMCA branches: the Ambler YMCA (1325 McKean Road, Ambler, PA 19002; 215-628-9950), the Haverford Area YMCA (891 N. Eagle Road, Havertown, PA 19083; 610-649-0700), the Rocky Run YMCA (1299 West Baltimore Pike, Media, PA 19063; 610-627-9622), and the Spring Valley YMCA (19 W. Linfield-Trappe Road, Royersford, PA 19468; 484-984-2000). Please note that some branches may not participate in every cohort; only currently participating branches appear on the program's interest form.
Space in each 12-week session is limited. Veterans and their families interested in joining the September 15 session can learn more and submit their interest here, or by calling 215-220-9199.