BALLSTON SPA, N.Y. — Saratoga County officials recently announced a comprehensive health and wellness program for participants in its Veterans Service Agency’s Peer Connection Program, in partnership with Saratoga Regional YMCA.
According to a press release, this initiative offers a special YMCA membership focused on physical health and overall well-being in a supportive environment.
Eligibility requires veterans to be Saratoga County residents, use a Saratoga Regional YMCA at least three times a week and attend one monthly meeting at the Saratoga Springs YMCA. This program is being offered at a 75% discounted rate for the membership.
“On Behalf of the Board of Supervisors, I am proud to support the Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency in their initiative to promote physical health as an essential component of veterans’ overall wellbeing,” Chairman of the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors and former Army Officer Phil Barrett said in the release. “Those who have served our country deserve the best care and support as they embark on their journeys toward wellness.
“Thank you to the Saratoga Regional YMCA for their invaluable partnership in providing essential resources. Together, we are building a strong foundation for the mental and physical health of our veterans.”
“As a Navy Veteran, I wholeheartedly support the initiative of this program, which directly addresses the mental and physical health needs of our veterans. I want to emphasize the immense sacrifices our veterans have made for our country,” Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Vice Chair Ian Murray added. “It’s our duty to ensure they have access to the comprehensive resources they have earned and truly deserve.
“This offers an innovative solution to the challenges faced by those in crisis, focusing on their strengths to foster resilience.”
“We recognize that physical health is a vital protective factor in suicide prevention of veterans. By focusing on minimizing risks and enhancing the protective factors for our veterans, we aim to foster an environment that supports personal growth and goal setting,” Director of the Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency Frank McClement noted. “We are committed to prioritizing physical health and wellbeing for our veterans, ensuring they have access to the resources they need to succeed.”
“Through this partnership with Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency, the Saratoga Regional YMCA is proud to support those who have served by providing greater access to programs that foster health, connection, and belonging,” Allison D’Antonio, CEO of the Saratoga Regional YMCA, said. “This initiative is about more than just access — it’s about honoring veterans with opportunities to thrive as part of our community.”
Membership to the Veterans Health and Wellness Program begins upon application approval, submission of financial details, and issuance of a YMCA card, lasting until December 31, 2026. The YMCA will cover 50% of the membership costs, while the Peer Connection Program will contribute an additional 25%. Veterans will be responsible for the remaining 25%.
The Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency assists Veterans and their families with securing earned benefits and services. The Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency office will be having an informational session and presentation tabling event on January 27 from 1:30 to 5 p.m. at the Saratoga Regional YMCA location and on February 25 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Glens Falls YMCA location.
The Peer Connection Program is a New York State-funded Private First-Class Joseph P. Dwyer program, that provides opportunities for local veterans who have readjusted to civilian life to form relationships with veterans in need. It provides one-on-one mentoring, learning opportunities, social events, presentations, entertainment, volunteer/service opportunities and more.
For more information, interested veterans should contact Peer Connection Program Coordinator Erin Cassidy at 518-605-2899 or visit www.veteranspeertopeer.org.
