BOCA RATON, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2026 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — The YMCA of South Palm Beach County is getting a boost for its Parkinson’s disease programs, part of more than $1 million in community grants just handed out nationwide by the Parkinson’s Foundation. The local YMCA was awarded $14,000 to keep its Surf & Turf, Parkinson’s Cycle and Parkinson’s Dance programs running at its Boca Raton and Boynton Beach locations. Those programs are designed to help people with Parkinson’s improve strength, balance, flexibility and mobility, and the funding will sustain eight hours of programming every week across both sites. In all, the Foundation’s grants will reach people living with Parkinson’s in 41 states.
“The Parkinson’s Foundation is proud to support investments that directly reach communities across the country in need of access to meaningful Parkinson’s programs that understand and are equipped to address local needs,” said Parkinson’s Foundation President and CEO John L. Lehr. “Our community grant programs are truly life-changing for people with PD from all walks of life.”
This year’s community grants, according to a statement shared with BocaNewsNow.com, ranged from $10,000 to $25,000 per recipient, with the 2026 cycle specifically funding programs that address mental health needs for people with Parkinson’s, support care partners, and deliver exercise programs tailored to the disease. The Foundation says selected organizations had to operate locally and show a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
“This generous support from the Parkinson’s Foundation allows us to continue providing programs that empower individuals living with Parkinson’s disease,” said Robin Nierman, Director of Community Health programs. “Together, we are helping our community move, connect, and thrive.”
The grant to the local YMCA is part of a much larger effort. Since 2011, the Parkinson’s Foundation has poured more than $13.9 million into 1,065 community-based programs across the country. A full list of the 2026 community grant recipients is available at Parkinson.org/CommunityGrants.
Sign up for the BocaNewsNow.com nightly newsletter and breaking news email alerts. Completely free. Unsubscribe at any time.
Follow us on Google News
