On Wednesday morning, representatives from Franciscan Health Michigan City and the Duneland Family YMCA gathered with members of the community to announce their new partnership. Those in attendance were treated to breakfast and details regarding the new relationship and how it stands to benefit the Duneland community.
This partnership promises to bring additional programs to the Duneland community in order to further the health and wellness of the population. Representatives from both facilities expressed excitement at the partnership, and look forward to a future of collaboration.
“Franciscan Health and the Duneland Family YMCA are forming this strategic partnership to improve the health and wellness of all Duneland residents by integrating a variety of medical and wellness programs,” said Dave Kasarda, YMCA Chief Executive Officer and Director.
As a medically based facility, improving health and giving people the tools to do so is near the heart of the Franciscan Mission. They expressed excitement and hope for the new relationship, citing the ability to bring more of the tools and education necessary for the Duneland Community to thrive. Dean Mazzoni, President and Chief Executive Officer of Franciscan Health Michigan City explained the benefits of the partnership.
“We are in the process of defining the specific programs, but I think this partnership is so meaningful because it’s an example of two organizations who are both interested in promoting the health and wellness of members in our community. Coming together and pooling our resources to provide more resources, more programming, and more access,” said Mazzoni.
YMCA members were excited to hear of the partnership as well and looked forward to the additional programs and resources that will be made available to them. Both facilities focus on aiding community members regardless of age or ability to pay, which provides more opportunity for people to focus on their health. Jeanne Kasarda, a member and frequent visitor of the Duneland YMCA, expressed her excitement for the additional attention this will drive to the facility.
“I take different classes here, I’ve been active for a good twenty years and I’ve done Zumba and yoga; I love it,” said Kasarda. “I think the partnership will help to bring membership in and to help the seniors with their blood pressure and other questions.”
Though the partnership is still in its beginning stages with much planning still to be done, it promises to offer a large benefit to the Duneland community. For those involved, the shared mission of Franciscan Health Michigan City and the Duneland YMCA promises to bring forth many great programs that will offer health and lifestyle benefits for those who utilize the facility.
