SERVING THOSE WHO NEED US MOST
As you may know, February is Black History Month, an annual celebration of achievements by black Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of African Americans in U.S. history.
The first YMCA open to African Americans was founded in 1853 by Anthony Bowen in the City of Washington. For the first 40 years of its existence, it operated independently of a nearby white YMCA. The Anthony Bowen YMCA was reorganized as an official branch of the Y in the City of Washington in 1905. For the next 50 years, it was the only YMCA facility in the District serving African Americans.
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THE BRIDGING PROGRAM
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. The month of February is dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease and prevention, so that those at risk can make choices to live heart healthy lives.
The Bridging Program, which came about through a partnership between the R.C. Durr YMCA and St. Elizabeth Healthcare, is for people who have a cardiac health history who want to make healthy changes in their lives. Most of the participants in the program have been through St. Elizabeth’s Phase II Cardiac Rehab program and are continuing to work on their new healthy lifestyle at the Y. Others in the program follow-up with a cardiologist, and are wanting to reduce their risk factors for a cardiac event such as a heart attack, open heart surgery, etc.
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