YMCA of Greater Brandywine to Launch Inclusive Fitness Program with Special Olympics Pennsylvania

(WEST CHESTER, PA) - On Wednesday, Sep. 10, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW), in partnership with Special Olympics Pennsylvania (SOPA), will launch Unified Fitness, a 12-week health and wellness program at West Chester Area YMCA. The program will offer twice-weekly training sessions for 12 participants with and without intellectual disabilities who will be paired together to promote health, inclusion and community connection through structured fitness routines. 

The program will take place every Wednesday and Sunday and will be led by YGBW fitness instructors and trainers who have received specialized training from SOPA. Participants will engage in hour-long sessions that include warmups, cardiovascular and strength training, balance and flexibility work, as well as guided discussions on wellness topics such as nutrition, hydration and emotional health. 

“This program is an exceptional opportunity to build a sense of belonging while supporting the health and wellness of everyone involved,” said Erin Lacotta, Senior Association Director of Behavioral Support and Adaptive Programs at the YMCA of Greater Brandywine. “We are proud to partner with Special Olympics Pennsylvania to offer Unified Fitness at the West Chester Area YMCA and create a space where athletes and partners can challenge themselves, learn from one another and grow stronger together.” 

Unified Fitness is designed to improve health outcomes for individuals with intellectual disabilities while fostering friendships and reducing social isolation. YGBW is the first YMCA in the suburban Philadelphia region to host the program, as part of a growing effort to expand health and wellness offerings to individuals with disabilities. 

“We are so excited to be expanding our partnership with the YMCA of Greater Brandywine to include Unified Fitness,” said Maureen Mason, Special Olympics Pennsylvania Executive Director of the Greater Philadelphia Region. “Special Olympics is the world’s largest public health organization for individuals with intellectual disabilities, providing access to free health services for a population with significant, unmet health needs. Our partnership with the YMCA is a great step towards meeting those unmet needs and helping provide our athletes with a better overall quality of life.” 

This collaboration also represents an extension of YGBW’s comprehensive suite of adaptive programs, which includes Unified Cheer, adaptive swim lessons, social skills groups and social events designed specifically for individuals with disabilities. Through these offerings, YGBW creates welcoming spaces where every individual, regardless of age or abilities, can access opportunities for growth, connection and achievement. 

For more information about adaptive programming, including volunteer opportunities, please visit us here.