HEALTH INTERVENTION
PROGRAMS
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LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is a free 12-week evidence-based program, tailored to the specific needs of adult cancer survivors who would like to improve their quality of life before, during, and after treatment. We offer small group sessions to connect participants to other cancer survivors looking to reclaim their lives. Our certified instructors and personal trainers have undergone specialized training in the elements of cancer, rehabilitative exercise, and supportive cancer care. During the 12 weeks, instructors will guide participants in developing their own health and wellness program, including strength, cardiovascular endurance, balance, and flexibility. After completing and submitting this form, the LIVESTRONG Program Coordinator will contact you with additional information and answer any additional questions. A FREE one year family membership is included with this program.
To be eligible for this program:
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Participant must be an adult cancer survivor. Date of diagnoses does not matter. You could just be diagnosed or diagnosed years ago.
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To gain the most benefit from this program, participants should aim attend at least 80% of classes during the 12-week program, missing no more than five classes.
Questions:
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Chippewa Falls YMCA - Contact Joy Lancour, at jlancour@ymca-cv.org or 715-723-2201.
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Eau Claire Downtown YMCA - Contact April Peterson, at apeterson@ymca-cv.org or 715-833-4843.
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Menomonie East YMCA - Contact Tracey Quast at tquast@ymca-cv.org or 715-723-2201.
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Pedaling for Parkinson’s helps Parkinson Disease patients develop healthy lifestyles through fitness, education, and wellness activities in a group setting. Sessions will run for 8 weeks at a time.
The Pedaling for Parkinson’s™ program is based on research indicating that consistent, high-cadence cycling can reduce symptoms of Parkinson’s. In fact, participants who ride three days a week over eight weeks have shown improvement in their Parkinson’s-related symptoms by as much as 35%.
Cost:
Free for all Parkinson’s patients and their caregivers. All participants will receive a 1-year family membership to the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley once the program begins.
To be eligible for this program:
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To gain the most benefit from this program, participants should aim attend at least 80% of classes during the 12-week program, missing no more than five classes.
Questions:
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Chippewa Falls YMCA - Please contact Solomon Abebayehu, at soloabe@ymca-cv.org or (715) 861-2348.
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Eau Claire Downtown YMCA - Contact April Peterson, at apeterson@ymca-cv.org or 715-833-4843.
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Eau Claire South YMCA - Please contact Haili Carlson, at hcarlson@ymca-cv.org or (715) 861-8160
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Brain & Body Fitness is a unique experience designed specifically for people living with mild to moderate memory loss-and the care partners who support them. This program blends gentle physical activity, brain health exercises, and meaningful social connection to enhance quality of life for both participants.
Led by specially trained YMCA staff, the program is safe, supportive, and proven to boost mood, physical fitness, and overall well-being. Whether you're looking to stay active, lift your spirits, or build community, the Brain & Body Fitness program offers a fund and welcoming environment where you and your loved one can thrive side by side.
Questions:
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Chippewa Falls YMCA - Contact Joy Lancour, at jlancour@ymca-cv.org or 715-723-2201.
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Eau Claire Downtown YMCA - Contact April Peterson, at apeterson@ymca-cv.org or 715-833-4843.
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A specialized program offered at the Eau Claire Downtown YMCA for men and women in recovery from substance use disorder. Sober Strong combines group exercise with peer support services to create connection and belonging while reducing post-acute withdrawal symptoms in early recovery.
Individuals can complete the registration form and the YMCA will reach out to you to get your membership and provide you the additional details on ways to sign up for the meetings.
Participants will receive a free membership to the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley once accepted into the program. The Sober Strong Program is centered at the Downtown Eau Claire YMCA, where all peer support meetings, activities, and program services take place. Participants are expected to maintain active involvement at the Downtown Eau Claire location as part of their membership and recovery journey.
Referrals are also accepted from organizations and professionals that support recovery from substance use disorder, including sober living facilities, treatment courts, Comprehensive Community Services, therapists, and primary care providers.
This Program has 3 Components:
Wellness Consult
By Appointment Only
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Upon starting your membership you will receive a free 45 minute wellness consultation to help you meet your health goals.
Group Exercise Classes
You are welcome at all group exercise classes but below are some we recommend:
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HIIT @ EC Downtown YMCA
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Mondays & Thursdays: 12:05-12:50 PM
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Mondays & Wednesdays: 6:00-6:50 AM
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Bootcamp @ EC Downtown YMCA
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Fridays: 8:00–8:45 AM
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Yoga @ EC Downtown YMCA
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Wednesdays: 12:05–12:55 PM
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Qi Gong/Tai Chi @ EC Downtown YMCA
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Tuesdays: 1:00-1:50 PM
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See our complete Group Exercise Schedule here.
Support Meetings
We offer a Women's Support Group, Men's Support Group, & COED Support Group
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Available to all program participants, it is an open topic discussion meeting with subjects ranging from disordered eating, trauma, relationships, addiction, and recovery. This meeting brings people together to share their past, present, and hopes for the future. Participants meet in the second floor conference room at the Eau Claire Downtown YMCA.
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Women Only Support Group:
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Tuesdays, 11:00-11:50 AM
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Men Only Support Group:
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2nd & 4th Tuesdays June-December, 5:00-6:00 PM
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June 9 & 23, July 14 & 28, Aug 11 & 25, Sept 8 & 22, Oct 13 & 27, Nov 10 & 24, Dec 8 & 22
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COED Support Group - Rise Up Together:
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Wednesdays, 6:00-7:30 PM in the YMCA Clubhouse (206 Emery Street, Eau Claire)
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This program is geared toward older adults of all fitness levels. If you have a chronic condition, such as arthritis, you may be able to gain more strength and independence. You will feel energized — physically, mentally and socially — and be surrounded by people who care about your success.
THE FACTS TELL THE STORY:
Research has shown that among older adults who participate in Enhance®Fitness, health costs were lowered by close to $1,000 and 9 out of 10 people stay with the program. In addition, 99% say they would recommend the program to a friend.
The exercises are dynamic but can always be done at your pace:
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Up to 25 people in each class: we provide chairs and soft weights
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Class meets 3 times per week and focuses on flexibility, balance, strength & movement
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Fitness assessment at beginning and every 4 months, continue weekly in on-going 16 week sessions
Cost:
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Members: FREE
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Non-Members: First 16-Week Session FREE then a YMCA membership will be required to continue additional sessions.
Questions:
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Eau Claire Downtown YMCA - Contact April Peterson, at apeterson@ymca-cv.org or 715-833-4843.
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Menomonie East YMCA - Contact Jalen Thomas, at jthomas@ymca-cv.org.
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The YMCA of the Chippewa Valley is proud to offer a variety of ForeverWell formally known as Active & Ageless programs committed to helping seniors maintain a healthy lifestyle and strengthen social ties. We encourage everyone to grow in the areas of physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Our active adult land and water-based exercise classes promote fitness and well-being while fostering friendships and camaraderie.
Aging In Place Speaker
Fall 2 2026
Session Date:
Saturday, November 21
Time:
10:00-11:00 AM
Pricing:
FREE
Location:
Eau Claire South YMCA
ForeverWell Gathering & Potluck
Fall 2 2026
Session Date:
Friday, November 13, 2026
Time:
11:00 AM-12:00 PM
Pricing:
Free
Location:
Eau Claire Downtown YMCA