GIVE THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

It is a wonderful cliché. Give the gift that keeps on giving. Long after the “soap on a rope” is gone, the cologne bottle is empty, the fruitcake has been discarded, the tie has fallen out of fashion, and the latest toy has gone to the broken toy graveyard, these gifts continue to provide benefits to the recipients. I know of one such gift. It is a perfect gift for nearly anyone, and good for an individual or an entire family: membership in your local YMCA. I am a member and can vouch for the myriad benefits of the Y.

The YMCA was founded in 1821 in England by George Williams in response to the mass movement of young men into the large cities of England to find work during the industrial revolution. Conditions were unhealthy, and these young men—many were just boys—had no place to go outside their workplace. The first Ys were not gyms but rather sanctuaries where young men could find good Christian fellowship and Bible studies. The YMCA movement proved popular and by 1851 there were 24 YMCAs in Great Britain. The first YMCA in the United States opened Dec. 29, 1851, in Boston. Today, there are more than 2500 of them scattered across the United States, making it the largest nonprofit community service organization in America.

Over time, the original purpose of the YMCA evolved to include athletics. Although today Ys are regarded by many as synonymous with gymnasiums and are often best known for their sports programs, they originally began as an instrument for Christian evangelism. The popularity of the Y movement eventually led to a more ecumenical approach and today’s Ys are open to anyone regardless of gender, race, nationality, or religious persuasion.

YMCA programs today include Adventure Guide for children and families, aquatics, arts and humanities, camping, child care, community development (job training, drug abuse prevention, etc.), health and fitness, activities for older adults, and sports, among others. I joined for the exercise. Years of running had taken their toll on my legs and hips, and I felt the need for better overall fitness and strength. I had never worked out in a gym in my life. I was concerned about how I would compare to the “gym rats” I expected to encounter, making me look like

I had nothing to fear. At the Y, you will encounter the twentysomething bodybuilder with rippling muscles and no body fat, yes, but you also will see a lot more average folks, from teens to senior citizens. Some are thin, some are significantly overweight. Some look like the walk from the parking lot will do them in. All have one thing in common: a desire to make a positive change in their lives. Trust me, you will be inspired, no matter what your physical condition.

The Y is incredibly well-equipped. It is well-lit, clean, and you feel welcome from the moment you walk in the door. You get the feeling people are rooting for you to succeed, whatever your goals. There are exercise programs for every level. Can’t exercise? There is an indoor pool where you can move without being encumbered by gravity, or simply float. They have spin classes, yoga, Zumba, aerobics, boot camps. There are sports programs for the kids and even day care for mothers with infants and toddlers, right onsite. There are youth development programs, camps, and even a diabetes prevention program. The Y offers certified personal trainers to help you establish goals and achieve them. Always check with your doctor before beginning an exercise program.

I cannot imagine a better holiday gift. My family membership costs $79 per month. The average price for a pack of cigarettes in Florida is around $6.30. Quit a pack-a-day habit and you can pay for your family and have enough for a nice dinner out for the whole gang!

Now, here is the good part. No one will be turned away from the Y because of inability to pay. No one. There are scholarships and reduced rates available for those who need them and, in case of real hardship, fees may be waived. It’s a great way to start the new year. If you can find a better deal anywhere, jump at it.

Accusured Management

The coming year is going to be big for South Lake Hospital, and the South Lake Hospital Foundation has no small part in it.

The venerable hospital will bring greater access to health care for more residents in 2018 by opening two new satellite health pavilions, as well as unveiling renovations to the emergency department at the main campus in Clermont.

The foundation, the vital fundraising arm for the hospital, has raised funds for new lifesaving equipment and technology for the main campus, says Sheri Olson, director of the foundation, government, and guest relations.

Contributions also will help equip the Health Pavilion at Blue Cedar, expected to open in May or June in the northern part of our hospital district on U.S. Highway 27, and the Joe H. and Loretta Scott Health Pavilion, which will debut in July in Four Corners. Both pavilions will have freestanding emergency departments as well as outpatient services such as diagnostic imaging and laboratories.

“The expansions are all about serving our community residents, whether they’re in the northern part of our service area, the southern part, or right here close to South Lake Hospital, and providing better access to emergency care when minutes matter most,” Sheri says.

The foundation organizes two signature fundraising events each year. In November, the 19th annual golf tournament once again attracted a sellout crowd of golfers and sponsors.

“They come forward every year to support the hospital’s mission in improving the health and quality of life in our community,” Sheri says.

The fourth annual Charity Gala will stage an “Evening in Monte Carlo” March 3 at the Clermont Performing Arts Center. Supporters can help raise funds through their attendance, sponsorships, a silent auction, and donation of auction items.

With help from partners and community donors, the foundation also supports the South Lake Health Clinic, which provides primary care for uninsured adults. The

Community Foundation of South Lake County provides grants for a medication program for the clinic, and Susan G. Komen Central Florida and Summit Greens Women’s Club gives funding for free screening and diagnostic mammograms for uninsured south Lake County women who qualify.

Donations to the foundation also fund scholarships for youths to participate in sports at the National Training Center, an organic community garden on the main campus, and educational scholarships for hospital employees and others who want to study nursing, respiratory therapy, and other fields.

“The support of our community helped start South Lake Hospital years ago, and that support continues today to help us improve our community’s health,” Sheri says.

South Lake Hospital Foundation is at 1900 Don Wickham Drive, Clermont. To donate or to become a sponsor, call 352.394.4071, ext. 4406, or visit southlakehospital.com/foundation.

That place right now is The Heart of the Villages. Our physicians and medical professionals have been treating Central Floridians for years with a level of exemplary cardio care that comes straight from the heart. We’re in a new location now, but our hearts are where they’ve always been—with you and the health of your family.

New location! The Oaks Professional Center, 8575 NE 138th Lane Call today for a consultation at 352.674.2080 heartofthevillages.com