Healthy Living

Powerful Tools for Caregivers

Caring for a family member or friend with a chronic condition can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. This highly effective, evidence-based, self-care educational program for family caregivers builds the skills needed to take better care of themselves as they provide care for others. Caregiver participants learn to minimize the potentially negative impacts of caregiving while emphasizing self-care and empowerment. Class participants are given The Caregiver Helpbook to accompany the class and provide additional caregiver resources.
To Learn more about this program, watch this short overview video

Read Program Reviews

Upcoming 2026 classes held via Zoom:

• Apr 15 – May 20  |  Wednesdays  | 5:30 – 7pm
• Jun 29 – Aug 3  |  Mondays  |  1 – 2:30pm
• Sep 17 – Oct 19  |  Mondays  |  1 – 2:30pm
• Sep 23  – Oct 28  |  Wednesdays  | 5:30 – 7pm
• Nov 9 – Dec 14  |  Mondays  |  1 – 2:30pm
  • Register

Open to everyone, Y membership not required. These classes are available at NO CHARGE thanks to a generous sponsorship from Aging and Long Term Care of Eastern Washington (ALTCEW)

Powerful Tools for Caregivers one-time 90-minute Managing Stress Workshop

• Future workshop dates and times will be posted here when available.

In this introductory 90-minute session on how to manage caregiver stress, trained facilitators will help attendees explore stress management basics for themselves. This workshop is based upon the six-week Powerful Tools for Caregivers program, a self-care education program for family caregivers.

During this 90-minute workshop, attendees will learn how to:

• Identify signs and sources of stress
• Discover stress reducers
• Make an action plan
• Learn a relaxation technique

LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is a FREE program tailored to fit the specific needs of cancer survivors who would like to improve their quality of life. Our certified Lifestyle Coaches and personal trainers have undergone specialized training in the elements of cancer, rehabilitative exercise and supportive cancer care. Sessions are offered in a small group environment with exercise protocols customized for each individual.

Read news release showing significant gains for cancer survivor participants.

The LIVESTRONG® Foundation

There can – and should be – life after cancer for the more than 32.6 million people around the world affected by cancer. Creating connections for needed support, leveraging funding and resources to spur innovation, and engaging communities and leaders to drive social change, the foundation known for the iconic yellow wristband puts its mission in motion by inspiring and empowering those affected by cancer. For more information, visit LIVESTRONG.org.

This might be for you if…

• You are a survivor 18 years or older
•  You have been medically cleared by your doctor to participate in a physical activity program. Our staff can provide support in obtaining an official medical clearance at the time of program entry but you are encouraged to discuss your interest in participation with your medical team before initiating a pre-registration interview.
• You have completed portions of treatment that could limit full participation, such as surgeries that require downtime for recovery, treatment protocols which require immune system protocols limiting contact with others, etc.
• You completed treatment years ago but did not previously get the help needed to reclaim your health either through spirit, mind or body, or all.
• You possess a strong personal desire and commitment to attend all classes. The commitment of the program requires twice-weekly meetings for 12 consecutive weeks.
• You give your permission for LIVESTRONG at the YMCA coaches to talk with your healthcare team, if needed
• You are physically able to participate in most of the activities
• You are willing to complete the required forms

Sessions:

2026 Sessions-

• February 23 – May 14, 2026
  • Mon/Thu  |  6:30 – 8pm
  • Spokane Valley Y
• September 14 – December 7, 2026
  • Mon/Thu  |  6:30 – 8pm
  • North Spokane Y

Contact Mary Jo Kester, Community Health Programs Coordinator, with any questions.

Your journey to feeling your best starts with a supportive community that sees you as a whole person—not just a number on the scale. Balanced Living: A Sustainable Wellness Journey utilizes the YMCA Weight Loss Program curriculum to help you create lasting, healthy habits that fit your life.

• Lifestyle changes that promote energy, confidence, and connection to your values
• A focus on overall well-being: body, mind, and spirit
• Support from expert coaches and a welcoming community
• Personalized, sustainable strategies

We believe in progress over perfection and celebrating every step forward.  Join a program that helps you build habits for a healthier, happier life—without guilt or unrealistic expectations. You’re already enough—let’s build a wellness journey that reflects that.

What to Expect:

Each week, participants will:

• Track Progress: Record meals and movement and reflect weekly on the results of changes you are experimenting with.
• Explore New Topics: Learn about wellness areas like creating supportive environments, physical activity and movement, stress management and quality sleep, and positive psychology and motivation.
• Engage in Group Discussions: Share experiences, challenges, and tips with others on the same journey
• Set Realistic Goals: Develop achievable weekly objectives that keep you on track

This program is currently available with flexible scheduling to groups of 8 or more (maximum group size 16). This program could be offered as an employee wellness benefit at your company or organization. Are there 8 people in your men’s group, church, social club, or neighborhood that would like to engage in this journey together? Contact Nicole Manus, Community Health Director to discuss possibilities.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with memory loss, join us at the Central Spokane YMCA for coffee, social activities, and connection.

At the Dementia Café, persons living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias and their loved ones or companion will enjoy socializing in a relaxed setting. The focus will be on making connections. Friendships are created in an environment that is accepting and non-judgmental. Walk-ins are welcome but contacting Inland Northwest Alzheimer’s Association ahead is encouraged to ensure we share parking pass information.

Contact [email protected] for more information.

Café Schedule

• 3rd Friday of each month
• 2 – 3:30pm
• Central YMCA, 930 N Monroe, Spokane, WA 99201