YMCA of Greater Brandywine Expands Community Impact Through Partnerships and Innovative Programs

(WEST CHESTER, PA) – The YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW) is expanding its reach and impact through partnerships that address the evolving health and wellness needs of Chester County residents. From mobile fitness programs to caregiver education and family-centered health events, these initiatives aim to support individuals and families at every age and stage of life. 

“Our partnerships reflect the Y’s ongoing commitment to serve as a connector and catalyst for community health and well-being,” said Bertram L. Lawson II, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine. “Together with organizations like West Chester University, the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Nemours Children’s Health, we’re ensuring that every family has access to the tools, knowledge and resources they need to live healthy, meaningful lives.” 

Addressing Whole-Family Mental Health
In collaboration with West Chester University, YGBW will offer introductory sessions of the university’s Learning Life Skills Together (LLST) program. The program is designed to strengthen mental health outcomes for families through guided self-care strategies, mindfulness practices and practical tools to reduce stress and improve family dynamics. Sessions will be held in person at YGBW branches across Chester County this fall and are free to the community. Individuals can register for LLST here. 

“Through guided sessions, participants learn strategies to support their own well-being while enabling their child’s success,” said Dr. Donald McCown, PhD, MSS, LSW, Professor of Public Health Sciences at West Chester University and creator of the LLST program. “The program can be especially beneficial for caregivers of children with behavioral, learning or developmental challenges.” 

Developed through a collaboration between Pennsylvania State Senator Carolyn Comitta and the West Chester University Center for Contemplative Studies, the program is designed for parents and carers to support the children in their lives. 

Empowering Families and Educators Through Health Education 
YGBW has also launched a speaker series in partnership with the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). The series brings trusted health experts into the community, providing caregivers with tools and information on key topics affecting children and teens. Recent sessions included Concussion Awareness and CHOP Talk: Teen Mental Health. An upcoming event on Co-Regulation for Caregivers (date TBA) will focus on practical strategies for supporting children’s emotional well-being. 

To further support the health and wellbeing of local families, YGBW recently partnered with Nemours Children’s Health to train YGBW Educators on timely health topics, including Medication Administration, EpiPen Usage and Healthy Eating for children. As the county’s largest provider of licensed childcare services, YGBW Educators serve more than 5,000 children annually. 

Through these partnerships, YGBW is connecting families with healthcare providers, expanding access to education and resources, and creating stronger community networks for health and wellness. 

Strengthening Chester County 
YGBW is also expanding its mobile health and wellness efforts through its state-of-the-art mobile health and wellness unit, the Fit Truk, which travels across Chester County to provide fitness and wellness opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. This fall, the Fit Truk will engage with seniors at Senator Carolyn Comitta’s Senior Health Fair, athletes at Special Olympics of Pennsylvania training events and the broader community at other local events. 

“Our vision with the Fit Truk is to deliver health and wellness directly to communities, increasing access and breaking down barriers,” said Veronica Lopez, Vice President of Health Strategies at the YMCA of Greater Brandywine. “Through collaboration, innovation and compassion, we are committed to serving all ages and abilities.” 

For more than 130 years, YGBW has served as a community partner dedicated to improving health and well-being throughout Chester County. To learn more about partnership opportunities, please visit ymcagbw.org