Support Groups

Diabetes Prevention
This 16-week program works to decrease the risk of diabetes through education, increased activity and improved nutrition. This program is based on the Diabetes Prevention Program, a national study which successfully demonstrated that lifestyle changes (diet and exercise) can prevent diabetes. Risk factors for diabetes include:

• Being overweight or obese (i.e. BMI of 25 or higher)
• First-degree family history of diabetes
• Being age 45 or older
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Low HDL Cholesterol (35 mg/dl; 0.09 mmol/l) and high triglycerides (250 mg/dl;2.82 mmol/l)
• High blood pressure (consistent reading of 140/90mmHg or higher)
• History of gestational diabetes or gave birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds
• Belonging to one of the following ethnic populations: African Americans, Native American Indians, Latinos, Asian, Americans, and Pacific Islanders
• Having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Having a history of vascular disease

To learn if you are at risk see American Diabetes Association screening

Financial Assistance is available.
 
Fee: $100 for Members, $150 for Non-Members

YMCA Healthy Lifestyles
Become more active, lose weight, increase your energy, improve your self-esteem, decrease stress and make new friends with the Stanford Healthy Lifestyles Program. This life changing program uses group dynamics and one-on-one coaching to help individuals achieve personal goals. Participants meet as a group with trained facilitators who inspire action regarding personal health and provide guidance through each step of the behavior change. For more information contact Susan Buell at (253) 534-7872.
Interested in being a participant?
Take the SHALA (Standford Healthy and Lifestyle Assessment)

Journey to Freedom
Journey to Freedom is Christ-centered small group which provides hope to those overcoming any of life's many challenges.You do not need to be a follower of Christ to attend. Participants initially attend an 8-week small group/class in preparation to take the first steps toward life-changing behaviors and attitudes. With comfort, support, relief, confidentiality, accountability and fulfillment, Journey to Freedom has helped those when they needed it most.

For more information contact Kim Cope at (253) 534-7865 or Janele Nelson at (253) 460-8966 or jnelson@ymcapkc.org