YMCA offers free health program

The Camarillo Family YMCA-Hiji Center will begin a new project Wed., Feb. 21 to help baby boomers get in shape.

The free two-hour health program will include discussions by a registered nurse and exercise physiologist about how to maintain a healthy heart.

Among the topics that two of the YMCA's certified exercise instructors will address are strength training and joint flexibility.

There will also be exercise and yoga demonstrations.

Those who attend the program will receive a free threeday pass to the YMCA.

The day will mark the kick off of the YMCA's annual Campaign for Youth fundraiser. The organization's 40 or so volunteers will begin a monthlong effort to raise $80,000 for a scholarship fund.

Bobbi RossNeier, membership director, said 100 percent of the money raised will go to help families and individuals who can't afford the membership fee but enjoy the programs the YMCA offers, including swim lessons, youth wellness class and summer camp.

"We don't want to turn anyone away," Ross-Neier said.

She said residents benefit from having a Y in Camarillo. "I think our mission mainly is to bring the community together," Ross-Neier said.

She said the Y plans to offer more outreach programs and work with other community groups. "We work together to make Camarillo a better place to live."

The Camarillo YMCA has about 2,000 active members and 2,000 program members, and offers a variety of membership plans. Monthly fees range from $30 to $78.

The Family YMCA-Hiji Center is at 3111 Village at the Park Drive. For more information, call (805) 484-0423.

- Michelle Knight