The YMCA of Metro North announced that the Torigian Family YMCA in Peabody has received a $25,000 Quality of Life grant from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation’s National Paralysis Resource Center (NPRC). This funding will expand the Y Adapt Fitness Program, which provides inclusive, accessible, and supportive wellness opportunities for individuals living with paralysis and other mobility challenges.
The grant will be used to enhance adaptive fitness programming through additional specialized equipment, staff training, and expanded one-on-one and small-group support for participants. These advancements strengthen the Y’s capacity to offer barrier-free paths to strengthening, mobility, and community connection.
“At the Y, we are proud to partner with organizations dedicated to advancing mobility and independence, and we are honored to serve individuals of all abilities as they pursue strength, confidence, and connection,” said Cara Green, Torigian Family YMCA. “This grant allows us to grow our Adaptive Fitness Program and welcome even more individuals living with paralysis into a space where they can build strength, confidence, and meaningful connections. We are deeply grateful to the Reeve Foundation for supporting equitable access to health and wellness.”
The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation awarded 61 Quality of Life grants totaling more than $1.24 million in its 2025 Direct Effect 1st Cycle. Since launching the program, the Foundation has awarded over 4,000 grants totaling $48 million, empowering nonprofits nationwide to advance independence, equity, and opportunity for individuals living with paralysis. Funding was made possible through a cooperative agreement with the Administration for Community Living.
“These grants represent more than funding—they represent freedom, possibility, and dignity for individuals living with paralysis,” said Dan McNeal, Director of the Quality of Life Grants Program at the Reeve Foundation. “We are proud to support organizations like the YMCA of Metro North that build programs rooted in accessibility, equity, and compassion.”