The YMCA of Delaware is excited to announce the launch of Let’s Move Delaware, a statewide celebration of healthy living running from September 8th through October 13th, 2024. This dynamic initiative aims to inspire thousands of youth and adults across Delaware to embrace fitness, sports, and healthy habits as they move toward a healthier future. We invite everyone—families, individuals, and organizations—to join us in making Delaware a healthier place to live, work, and play.
According to Delaware Health and Social Services (DHSS), Obesity among Delaware adults more than doubled between 1992 and 2021 to 37.9 percent in 2022. The prevalence of diagnosed diabetes among Delaware adults also more than doubled from 4.9 percent in 1991 to 13.9 percent in 2022. Obesity (a BMI greater than 30) increases the risk of chronic diseases and other health conditions, including: heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, liver and gall bladder disease, sleep apnea, joint problems, and infertility.
Throughout Let’s Move Delaware, participants can engage in a variety of events designed to promote active lifestyles and community wellness, including:
- Sunday, September 8th | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Great Human Race 5K & International Food Festival
Western Family YMCA | 2600 Capitol Trail, Newark, DE 19711 - Friday, September 13th | 6:30 p.m.
Sneaker Ball
Delaware Art Museum | 2301 Kentmere Pkwy, Wilmington, DE 19806 - Friday, September 27th | 1 – 4 p.m.
YMCA Corporate Cup
Middletown Family YMCA | 202 E. Cochran St., Middletown, DE 19709 - Saturday, October 5th | 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Pumpkin Dash 5K
Glasgow Park | 2275 Pulaski Hwy, Newark, DE 19702 - Tuesday, October 8th | 12 – 7 p.m.
”Fore the Kids” Golf Outing
Deerfield Country Club | 507 Thompson Station Rd., Newark, DE 19711
For a full list of events, visit our Let’s Move Delaware events page.
Let’s Move Delaware is more than just a campaign—it’s a movement that calls on all Delawareans to take action. As a leading force in community health, the YMCA of Delaware annually engages over 120,000 youth and adults in programs that transform lives. Every dollar raised during this campaign will directly support our YMCA of Delaware’s Open Doors financial assistance program, which will provide over $5 million in YMCA program and membership scholarships to individuals and families in 2024. By participating, you’re not just promoting healthy living—you’re also helping to make these essential services accessible to more people in our community.
Ways to Participate:
- Register and Engage Your Employees: Encourage your team to participate in Let’s Move Delaware events and activities.
- Compete in the Inaugural YMCA of Delaware Corporate Cup: Bring your organization together for a good cause and foster teamwork in a fun, competitive environment.
- Become a Sponsor: Support our mission and help make Delaware a healthier, more vibrant community.
To participate in or to sponsor the Let’s Move Delaware campaign, contact Jesus De Las Salas, YMCA of Delaware Vice President of Social Responsibility & Corporate Partnerships via e-mail here, by phone at (302) 571-6962, or visit the Let’s Move Delaware page online.
About the YMCA of Delaware
The YMCA of Delaware is Delaware’s largest nonprofit organization committed to empowering youth, fostering healthy living, and promoting strong communities. With seven branches statewide, a youth resource center, and an overnight camp and conference center in Worton, Maryland, the Y has developed longstanding relationships and a physical presence in Delaware so it can deliver lasting personal and social change. We are committed to serving everyone – regardless of age, income or background –nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving Delaware’s health and wellbeing, and creating a healthy, inclusive community where all people reach their full potential. www.ymcade.org.
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