8,000 cancer survivors in Muskegon now have the opportunity to reclaim their health through the LIVESTRONG with the YMCA post-cancer survivor program. The YMCA of the USA partnered with the LIVESTRONG foundation to develop an evidence based physical activity program for survivors. Our annual Black Tie for the Y fundraiser is more important than ever!  On Saturday, February 8, 2020 over 200 people will gather at the Grand Valley State Innovation Hub to celebrate the Muskegon YMCA’s impact in the community and raise funds for the LIVESTRONG at the Muskegon YMCA program.

The LIVESTRONG with the YMCA program helps cancer survivors reclaim their health after treatment. This is the only program of its kind in Muskegon and we are requesting sponsorship for the Black Tie for the YMCA event in which all proceeds benefit the participants of the program. New cohorts begin throughout each season, and graduates are able to join the alumni program.

LIVESTRONG with the YMCA began in Muskegon in 2016 with a class of six women. Since its inception, the program has continued to grow including 29 alumni and a current class of 9 with more on the waiting list, ready to join the program. 

There are over 8,000 cancer survivors in Muskegon County and 700 more diagnosed every year. Historically, cancer survivors have been told to “take it easy”.  They are told to expect diminished capacity - to simply do less. But research shows that the more active survivors are, the better chance they have of preserving strength, improving their quality of life, and perhaps even preventing the recurrence of cancer.

The goal of LIVESTRONG with the YMCA is to empower cancer survivors to reclaim their health after the devastating effects of cancer and cancer treatments.

LIVESTRONG with the YMCA is a small group based physical activity program led by specially trained YMCA Instructors.  Instructors and staff are specially selected to lead the small group program based on their ability to treat the whole person, including mind, body and spirit. 

Working together for 75 minutes twice a week for 12 weeks they:

• Build cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and balance
• Reduce the severity of treatment side effects
• Prevent unwanted weight changes
• Improve energy levels – a major obstacle for cancer survivors facing fatigue

The LIVESTRONG with the YMCA program strives to provide any survivor the evidence-based support and tools needed to regain physical and emotional strength. Per our agreement with the LIVESTRONG Foundation, this program is offered to cancer survivors at no charge to ensure we do not add to the financial burden of survivors. Survivors enjoy camaraderie, support, and activity lifting their spirit, energy, and resolve.

Due to the popularity of the program, word of mouth has been incredibly effective. Our graduates join a funded alumni program which meets once a week year round and profess to the continued and amazing benefits.

“What an incredible experience LIVESTRONG has been for me! I have formed lifelong friendships with women who have battled cancer, I have a support system that I can always count on, and I had a caring and encouraging coach who made exercising fun, got me moving again, and was mindful of my restrictions due to treatment and surgery. My life has been enriched by this program!”--Christy

“I feel normal.”--Liz

“Therapy through exercise..... What a great concept!

Cancer takes so much from one’s body.... gaining some control back is such a triumph! Having Melissa there to guide, instruct, push, was amazing. Some days when I would go from having my chemotherapy to the LIVESTRONG class I would feel like I just couldn't do it. That always seemed to be the day I would end up working the hardest and feeling the  best. At the end of the day, every moment is  a blessing and I was so blessed to have found LIVESTRONG”.-- Jackie

We are looking for live and silent auction basket or items that will create excitement during what promises to be a fun and engaging auction event. The item or service that you could offer will be put to excellent use in helping others.

We will provide a donor acknowledgement after the event. Muskegon YMCA is a (501(c)(3) non-profit (ID # 38-2000172).

If you have any questions regarding the Y or this fundraising effort, please contact me at (231)722-9622 x 240 or via e-mail carla@muskegonymca.org.

The target audience for the event is Muskegon County adults. The event is a black tie fundraiser and many adults, young and old, attend the festive evening for fun, food and a great time. Many corporations have several leaders attend to enjoy the event.

Mission and Goals

Muskegon YMCA Mission Statement:  To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.

2020 Black Tie for the YMCA Committee