Lead Organization:  Hot Springs Family YMCA

Contact:  Alexandria West, Program Director, Hot Springs Family YMCA, awest@hsymca.com

Partners and Collaborators Include:  City of Hot Springs, Healthier Communities Initiative, First Step, SEERS, Levi Rehabilitation Hospital, United Way, Kye-Yak International, It's Gud Food

The inclusive health coalition in Hot Springs is working with a wide range of partners and collaborators improve its community’s built environment. It has conducted the CHII on its own YMCA facility, and is working with several community partners to get them to conduct it on their facilities, as well. It is also working with the city and other community partners to assess and improve the accessibility of its historical downtown area as part of the Healthier Communities Initiative, with specific focus on the physical environment and policies that impact it. With IHC research and input, the YMCA has also purchased a NuStep aerobic machine to provide additional fitness options to individuals who may not otherwise be able to participate in fitness center-based cardiovascular activity. Additionally, they are working to get at least one fitness professional certified to work with clients with disabilities, and to promote this fitness option community wide. They are also revising YMCA marketing materials to reflect the inclusive environment, services, and access their facility provides all users. Finally, they are planning to host a health fair in the community for people with disabilities.