SSM Health is investing $30,000 in the Fond du Lac Family YMCA to support evidence-informed wellness programs that help community members manage chronic conditions, recover from illness or injury, and build healthier lifestyles. The community health gift will help sustain and expand collaborative wellness initiatives that are expected to serve more than 550 participants in 2026.
The funding supports several YMCA programs, including LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA, the Healthy Living Program for individuals transitioning from rehabilitation or managing chronic conditions, Parkinson’s Exercise Program, Healthy Hearts and the Balanced Health Series educational seminars. These programs provide structured exercise, health coaching, health education, and ongoing support designed to improve long-term wellness outcomes.
The partnership between SSM Health and the Fond du Lac Family YMCA spans more than 15 years and is focused on extending care beyond clinical settings into accessible community-based programs that promote prevention, recovery and lifelong healthy habits.
“Strong communities are built when people have access to the resources and support that they need to live healthier lives,” according to JJ Raflik, Fond du Lac Family YMCA CEO/executive director. “This generous support from SSM Health allows us to continue providing programs that empower individuals facing cancer, Parkinson’s disease, heart disease, and other health challenges. Together, we are helping remove barriers to wellness and creating opportunities for people to improve their health in a welcoming, supportive environment.”
The YMCA’s Healthy Living Program received 132 referrals in 2025, including 112 referrals from SSM Health providers. The program offers participants an eight-week complimentary membership, individualized goal setting and coaching support designed to encourage long-term physical activity and healthy behavior changes.
LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is a free 12-week program for cancer survivors, helping participants improve strength, endurance, flexibility and balance through individualized exercise and support. The Parkinson’s Exercise Program, delivered in partnership with SSM Health physical therapy professionals, helps participants maintain mobility, confidence and independence through evidence-informed exercise strategies.
“At SSM Health, we recognize that health is shaped not only by clinical care but also by the support people receive in their communities,” says Laura Nakielski, SSM Health Community Health manager. “The Fond du Lac Family YMCA is an invaluable partner in helping individuals continue their wellness journey after receiving medical care. By investing in these programs, we are strengthening access to preventive care, chronic disease management, and recovery services that improve quality of life for people across our community.”
The YMCA’s wellness programs are expected to serve approximately 556 participants in 2026 and help ensure individuals have access to safe, supportive and affordable opportunities to improve their health and well-being. Through financial assistance and health programs that include YMCA membership as part of participant support, the YMCA works to reduce barriers and provide equitable access to healthy living opportunities regardless of financial circumstances.
“Together, SSM Health and the YMCA are advancing a shared commitment to building a healthier community,” Raflik says. “This investment strengthens programs that help people not only recover and manage chronic conditions but thrive for years to come.”
SSM Health recently presented a $30,000 community health gift to the Fond du Lac Family YMCA to support wellness programs. Fond du Lac Family YMCA representatives – (left to right), Jacob Berger, Ericka Wawrzyn, and JJ Raflik – accepted the gift from SSM Health representatives – Shane Smith, Tami Schattschneider, and Laura Nakielski.
Date posted: August 17, 2026