October is Staystrong Month
Every October, the South Shore YMCA raises awareness and support for the Staystrong Cancer Support Program, which provides vital care for cancer patients, survivors, and their families. From featured fitness classes to volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, there are many ways to get involved and make an impact in our community.
2025 Staystrong Featured Fitness Classes
A minimum $30 donation to Staystrong is requested for each Featured Fitness Class, supporting the program and empowering others to stay STRONG.
Emilson YMCA Staystrong Classes
Staystrong Pound Fit with Ali - In Honor of Olivia Cash
October 4, Noon-3pm | Emilson YMCA Gymnasium, Hanover
You can't escape the positive vibes in this special POUND class with master instructor Ali Cash, in memory of her daughter Olivia. More than an exercise class....this will be an EXPERIENCE full of joy, high energy, raffle prizes and fun.
Staystrong Country Line Dancing with Jenn & Maureen
October 17, 5:30pm | Emilson YMCA Clark Pavilion
Join us for an evening of boot-stomping fun! Jenn and Maureen will lead an exciting Country Line Dancing class to raise funds and awareness for Staystrong. Grab your friends, kick up your heels, and join us for an energizing night of dancing, laughter, and community spirit.
Yoga with Amber & Kerry
October 23, 5:30pm | Emilson YMCA Studio C
Join Amber, Kerry & team for an uplifting yoga class as we celebrate living strong in spirit, mind, and body. This class supports the Staystrong cancer support program and is offered in memory of Stacey Cross Hugues.
Aqua Fit with Annie Donovan
October 29, 7:00am | Emilson YMCA indoor pool
The always energetic and inspirational Annie Donovan lead this fun and powerful Aqua Fit water workout in our indoor pools. Annie is a 2-time breast cancer survivor and inspires us all to live life to the fullest - spirit, mind and body.
Hale Family YMCA Staystrong Classes
Staystrong Zumba with Arthur & Emmy
October 19, 10:00am | Hale Family YMCA Brigg’s Family Field House
Join the dynamic duo Arthur & Emi for an energizing Zumba session that will get you moving, sweating, and smiling. Their upbeat music and high-energy style will inspire you to dance for your spirit, mind, and body.
Staystrong Bodypump with Jen Christenson
October 22, 6:05pm | Hale Family YMCA Studio B
The always motivating Jen Christenson leads this Body Pump class designed to challenge your strength and endurance. With powerful music and guided instruction, Jen helps you push past limits and feel stronger from the inside out.
Staystrong Restorative Yoga with Alyssa
October 25, 10:30am | Hale Family YMCA Studio C
Experience deep relaxation and renewal with Alyssa Nelson in this restorative yoga practice. A former Staystrong participant, Alyssa shares her journey and creates a peaceful, healing space that nurtures both body and soul.
Get your STAYSTRONG shirt!
Purchase your very own Staystrong SPIRIT MIND BODY long-sleeved shirt at our front desk for $35!
Volunteer During Staystrong Month
We are always looking for volunteers during Staystrong Month in October! If you are interested in volunteering for our resource table at the Emilson Y or Hale Family Y, please click the signup sheet button below.
As a Staystrong Month volunteer, you will help our Y:
- Hand out resources to those interested in participating in Staystrong as a cancer patient or survivor
- Help visitors honor or memorialize a ribbon for our Staystrong window
- Receive donations that benefit the program and participants,
- Receive advice/wishes for our suggestion box to grow the program.
- 1-2 volunteers per shift, weekday 2-hour shifts 9AM-7PM, or weekend shifts from 9AM-1PM available.
Questions?
Please contact Peter Helms, phelms@ssymca.org, or Jennifer Christenson, jchristenson@ssymca.org, for information on volunteering during Staystrong Month.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Make a difference for cancer survivors and their families by supporting the South Shore YMCA Staystrong Program. Complete our sponsorship form and contact Peter Helms at phelms@ssymca.org to learn more about sponsorship opportunities. DOWNLOAD SPONSORSHIP FORM
Donate and Help Others Stay Strong
Make a donation to Staystrong and help us grow this life-changing program to assist more people in our community and expand to new program offerings and services.
Donate