The collaboration between the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas and an impressive array of partners, including Parkland Health, Children’s Health, UT Southwestern, and many others, demonstrates a shared commitment to fostering both physical and mental wellness in our community. This event was not just a health fair; it was a comprehensive, family-friendly experience designed to equip attendees with practical tools for improving their overall well-being. There were 500 people in attendance, 60 received Salad and Go salads, 300 families benefitted from fresh produce distribution, 75 kids received Nike tennis shoes, and several children were provided back to school physicals and health screenings.

In a time when mental health concerns among children are on the rise, this event offered a timely and invaluable resource. Kudos to the YMCA and all the partnering organizations for putting together such a meaningful and impactful event.

We just wrapped up another amazing year at Kamp Kaana, and we're thrilled to share the incredible results! Our 12 campers worked hard and collectively lost 88.6 pounds – averaging a 7.4 lb loss each! Even more impressive, their BMI dropped by an average of 3.2 points!

This year, we expanded our focus beyond physical wellness, welcoming several community partners who led workshops on mental health, gut health, and overall nutrition. Together, we empowered our campers to not only transform their bodies but to nurture their minds and well-being too.

Thank you to everyone who made this year's camp unforgettable.

UT Southwestern/ Children’s Team Members:

Dr. Sarah Barlow – Professor of Pediatrics, UT Southwestern Medical School Director of Children’s Health Integrated Program in Childhood Obesity

Dr Wheelington - Pediatric Psychologist – Children’s Health

Megan Perry, PhD, is a psychologist finishing her post-doctoral training with Dr. Wheelington.

Amber Barker- Senior Program Coordinator Department of Psychiatry Center for Depression Research and Clinical Care

Dr Amber Deane

Dr. Foster



Lilian Zach - UT Southwestern Registered Dietician Interns



Growing Stronger Together: Frisco, Plano & McKinney

We're excited to announce the growth of our programs, reaching more people in the Frisco, Plano and McKinney communities! In Frisco, we're focusing on diabetes and heart disease prevention with interactive cooking demos and grocery store tours. McKinney residents are engaging with our popular BPSM and Get Up and Go programs to boost fitness and wellness. In Plano, we're offering a variety of programs, including BPSM, Get Up and Go, grocery store tours, and the high-energy FIT class.

QUICK NEWS- FAQ/Upcoming Events

2024 Key Leaders Luncheon: This year's Key Leaders Luncheon will feature a panel of distinguished area leaders to discuss the potential barriers to the continued growth of North Texas. Join us as we hear from Nadine Lee, President and CEO of Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), Lynn McBee, City of Dallas Workforce Czar, and Tori Mannes, President and CEO of Childcare Group.

Oct 17, 2024, 11am - 12:15pm: Sheraton Dallas Hotel - Ticket Purchase

2024 Fall Cornhole Tournament: Join us for an evening of fun, fellowship, and cornhole at the 2024 Richardson Family YMCA Fall Cornhole Tournament!

Nov 15, 2024, 5 - 8pm: Soccer Spectrum - Register Now

Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot: For over 55 years, the YMCA Dallas Turkey Trot has been a Thanksgiving tradition for families, friends, and athletes of all levels. Join us this year for our annual 5K, 8-mile race, or fun run, and experience the joy of giving back to your community while enjoying a fun-filled day of racing and celebration.

Nov 28, 2024, 7:30 - 11am: Dallas City Hall - More Information

Community Health Tips & Tricks

Apple Nectarine Parfaits With Maple Yogurt:

Ingredients:

5 apples of your choice (I used

gala)

Lemon juice (if using fresh, 1/2

lemon is plenty)

2 ripe nectarines

1 Tbsp brown sugar

12 oz plain nonfat Greek yogurt

1/2 cup real maple syrup

Cereal or granola of your choice

Instructions:

Peel and chop apples, then toss with

lemon juice. Chop nectarines

(peeling optional) and add to apples.

Mix fruit with sugar and let sit at

room temperature for 30 minutes.

After macerating for 30 minutes,

cook the fruit until the juice bubbles.

Simmer, stirring regularly, until the

fruit is soft. Chill in the refrigerator.

It will keep for several days, making

an easy breakfast.

Mix yogurt and syrup, adjusting

sweetness to taste. The mixture

should be slightly warmer in color

but still thick. To serve, layer fruit

and yogurt in a parfait glass,

topping with cereal. Enjoy!

For more healthy recipes, see more: Recipe cards

Here are some tips to help prevent sickness: 

• Wash your hands regularly. 
• Cough and sneeze into a tissue, your elbow, or your sleeve. 
• Don't share personal items or utensils with others. 
• Wear a mask if you're concerned about respiratory illnesses. 
• Disinfect surfaces in your home, especially if you live with others. 
• Increase ventilation by opening windows. 
• Be diligent about hygiene and take steps for cleaner air.