At the South Shore YMCA, accessibility is more than a value—it’s a commitment. Through our Adaptive Fitness Partnership Program, the Y is transforming lives by providing free, personalized fitness and recreational opportunities for Y members with physical disabilities. In collaboration with Spaulding Rehabilitation Network—whose outpatient centers are located within both the Emilson YMCA and Hale Family YMCA branches—this innovative program bridges clinical care and community wellness.
“This is a unique program where we work with individuals with physical disabilities and engage our members to volunteer and work alongside them,” says Paul Gorman, CEO of the South Shore YMCA. “We’ve received tens of thousands of dollars in donated equipment—some of which you’d only find in specialized hospitals like Spaulding. People travel from across the state, sometimes over an hour, to be part of this.”
Participants are matched with trained staff and volunteers who support their fitness journeys using adaptive equipment and customized workout plans. The program includes access to both fitness and aquatics centers, offering adaptive swim assistance and water safety training. It’s structured to meet individuals where they are—whether they need one-on-one support or prefer to exercise independently.
Katie Tinsdale, Partnership Program Coordinator, shares, “It’s amazing to see not just the resilience and strength of every participant, but how it inspires others to maintain and grow the program. People are living fuller lives—kayaking, canoeing, spending time with family. This program is life-changing, and I absolutely love being a part of it.”
One of those lives is Matt Bivens, a Y member who joined the program after a spinal cord injury. “I was diagnosed never to stand again,” Matt says. “But because of the Partnership Program and the thousands of hours the staff put in, I’ve been able to do something as simple—and powerful—as stand up. It’s done wonders for me.”
Watch our video below to learn more about the Adaptive Fitness Partnership Program and hear how Matt learned to stand tall once again thanks in part to the Partnership Program.
The Adaptive Fitness Partnership Program is offered at no cost, thanks to generous donations from Y members and the broader community. As the program continues to grow, the Y is calling on compassionate individuals to join the movement: volunteer, get trained, and help make fitness accessible to all.
“We really need volunteers,” Matt adds. “It’s a great experience. You’ll see how the other half lives, and you’ll find a community that welcomes you.”
Visit ssymca.org/adaptivepartnership to learn more, donate, or get involved. Your support makes a meaningful difference.