YMCA of Okanagan Confidence starts here Austin Nicholls has struggled explains Nicholls. "Once this I was in," said Nicholls. with weight issues his entire barrier was removed, I joined As a local charity, the YMCA life. Over the years, his weight the H20 Adventure + Fitness of Okanagan is dedicated had fluctuated between healthy and unhealthy levels the Y" until he eventually reached Since becoming a YMCA almost 300lbs. Centre, which is operated by to building a healthier community. By removing barriers and by providing critical programming to help address important community issues, the Y is helping member in April 2017, Austin After relocating to Kelowna has successfully lost 70 from Niagara, Ontario, Nicholls pounds. knew something had to change, and vowed to get back into shape. However, Austin's keeping it off wasn't going to potential. stumbling block was the ability with the support from the Y,I incorporating more activity in to afford access to a health and was able to focus on exercise, their lives, the Y is featuring fitness centre. people of all ages reach their "I knew losing weight and be easy," Nicholls said. "But For those interested in diet and long-lasting lifestyle a $20 first month offer until November 15. If financial circumstances are still a A friend of Nicholls told him changes." about the YMCA of Okanagan's Being overweight can cause Financial Assistance program, low confidence and self which, through the generosity esteem, leading to serious of donors, assists individuals health issues, isolation and and families who are unable depression. to participate in Y programs barrier, the Y urges individuals to learn more about YMCA Financial Assistance. At the Y no one should be unable to participate due to financial and services due to financial If I didn't have a place to go or a reason to leave the house to be active and healthy, then I probably would have stayed in circumstances Visit ymcaokanagan.ca for details. healthy was purely financial" In partnership with ThE DIILY COURIR #YMCAltStartsHere ymca okanagan.ca n'