Overview
The Merrimack Valley YMCA is committed to inspiring others to reach their full potential, offering numerous programs to support people with disabilities age 15+. Below are the program offerings for Y Abilities. Please note, not every program is offered year-round. For more information, please contact Jessica Borges.
Classes
These classes are for members only and included free as part of your membership. Sign up via the MV YMCA app.
Y-Abilities & Friends Spin
This is a sensory friendly spin class designed for individuals with intellectual disabilities, their friends, and caregivers.
Y-Abilities & Friends Cardio
Y-Abilities Cardio focuses on providing safe, accessible, and effective cardiovascular workouts for people of all abilities, body types, ages, and fitness levels.
Clubs
Y Abilities Clubs are month-to-month programs that are open to both members and non-members. Clubs run 1-2 times per week, depending on the club. Rates are based on your membership level and are billed monthly. You must register and pay each month to secure your spot for that month. Please note that all programs have limited availability to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
Pickleball Club
Whether you’re brand new to pickleball or already love the sport, you’ll find encouragement, friendship, and opportunities to build skills at your own pace and in an inclusive, welcoming environment.
Powerlifting Club
Weightlifting and strength training adapted for individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities. Workouts will be adapted to meet the needs and abilities of each participant.
Yoga Club
A welcoming, accessible, and supportive practice designed for all bodies, all abilities, and all identities. Whether you’re new to yoga or have an established practice, this class creates a space where everyone can move, breathe, and connect at their own pace.
Club Cost
Household Membership: $50 per club
All Other Membership Types: $82 per club
Non-Member (Community): $100 per club
Fee-Based Programs
These programs are open to both members and non-members. Registration cost depends on your membership level.
Stronger Together
This eight-week program offers adaptive fitness exercises, structured social engagement, and mindfulness training, all tailored to support individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities. Join us to build strength, confidence, and community.
Y-Abilities Swim
This class prioritizes skill development and skill progression, with a strong emphasis on water safety skills. Core skills include floating, climbing safely in and out of the pool, and learning the fundamentals of basic swim strokes.
Special Olympics Partnership
The Andover/North Andover YMCA has also partnered with the Special Olympics of Massachusetts to bring additional programs to teens and adults. These programs are free and open to the public.
- Fall offering: Pickleball
- Winter offering: Floor Ball
- Spring offering: Powerlifting
