Duneland Community In Northwest Indiana Sees Healthy New Partnership With Franciscan Health

CHESTERTON, Indiana - Franciscan Health Michigan City and the Duneland Family YMCA on October 25 announced an agreement designed to bring a unique blend of health and wellness programs to the community.

"I am excited about the partnership," Dean Mazzoni, hospital chief executive officer and president, said during a program conducted at the YMCA. “Our organizations have much in common; both are mission-driven and serve members of the community, regardless of their ability to pay; both rely on prayers from the community; and both want to help maintain and return those we serve to good health. We will combine the hospital's medical resources with the YMCA's health-focused programs and offer educational and wellness activities and events to promote healthy living," he added. Hospital staff members will offer a wealth of services, among them flu vaccinations, injury and prevention screenings, nutrition counseling, smoking cessation, diabetes programs, health fairs, educational presentations on a variety of topics, including health screenings for bone density, blood pressure, blood glucose, body fat and more.

Dave Kasarda, YMCA chief executive officer and director, praised the agreement, adding the idea formed several years ago when the YMCA's board of directors realized a need to secure a partner to help meet the community's growing needs. Following a lengthy vetting process, "the answer to our partnership became clear, it was Franciscan Health," he said.

"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. "Through a shared mission, both organizations will collaborate to address chronic disease and illnesses prevention through high-quality programs/services, which will be designed to serve the specific needs of the Duneland communities," he said.

For more information on the Duneland Family YMCA, visit http://www.dunelandymca.org.