Amidst the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Members of the Randolph YMCA embraced the challenge of finding alternative and more accessible solutions to exercising and staying in shape. They reopened their doors in September 2020 with online reservations, temperature checks, and a mask mandate. Along with these changes, they decided to include a disability program at the gym.
The Program
Health and Wellness Director, Mina Rofael, leads individualized training regimens for individuals with disabilities, including individuals with spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, autism, down syndrome, OCD, and bipolar disorder. Rofael welcomes a wide range of individuals of different ages and abilities to create a welcoming and motivational gym environment and experience for all. Tibby Posillico, one of the eight individuals that currently take part in this program, has shared her experience exercising at the Randolph YMCA as an individual with a spinal cord injury. A bi-weekly visitor of the gym since January 2021, Posillico says this program has strengthened her core, improving her ability to stand up and hold herself up.
The program has provided Posillico and other individuals with disabilities with an uplifting, comfortable gym experience.
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