Community as Medicine™
Active Older Adults, Adult (Ages 18-60), Adults Peninsula Family YMCA
GET HEALTHY IN COMMUNITY
Come together to support one another, share experiences, and grow healthier together with our Community as Medicine program at the Peninsula Family YMCA.
Complete our interest form or contact Valerie Azinheira, Healthy Living Director via email at [email protected] or calling (650) 294-2603.
What is Community as Medicine?
Community as Medicine (CAM) is a 12-week Healthy Living program centered on human connection as a powerful tool for health and healing.
Through shared movement, guided conversation, and mutual support, participants build resilience, reduce stress, and create healthier habits that last beyond the program.
YMCA coaches are trained in a trauma-informed, evidence-based model developed with Open Source Wellness (OSW).
This is a structured, supportive experience designed to help you feel better, together.
WHY IT WORKS
Clinical evidence shows that health improves when we combine physical activity, social connection, and supportive environments.
Physical Activity
Build strength, energy, and consistency
Social Connection
Reduce isolation and build meaningful relationships
Healthy Habits
Create routines that support long-term wellbeing
Stress Reduction
Improve mental health and emotional resilience
Real Results that matter
Outcomes based on national Community as Medicine program data.
77%
Decrease in emergency visits
51%
Increase in weekly exercise
43%
Reduction in depression symptoms
20%
Decrease in social isolation
Is this program right for you?
Community as Medicine is designed for adults looking to improve their overall wellbeing—especially those navigating stress, isolation, or ongoing health challenges.
- Looking to build healthier habits
- Wanting more connection and support
- Managing stress, anxiety, or life transitions
- Interested in a structured, supportive group experience
Open to participants in the Peninsula community, including San Mateo, Burlingame, Millbrae, and surrounding areas.
Program Details
Join a Community as Medicine group at the Peninsula YMCA.
- Schedule: Wednesdays, 10:00 – 11:15 a.m. Classes start on a rolling basis.
- Location:
Peninsula Family YMCA
1877 S. Grant Street
San Mateo, CA 94402 - Cost: Free
Contact Valerie Azinheira, Healthy Living Director via email at [email protected] or calling (650) 294-2603.
Each session is designed to be welcoming, supportive, and accessible—no prior experience needed.
- Light, guided physical activity
- Facilitated group conversations
- Practical tools for everyday wellbeing
- A consistent, supportive community
Come as you are. This program meets you where you are.
A different approach to health
Most health advice focuses on what to do. Community As Medicine focuses on how to make it sustainable.
By combining connection, accountability, and expert-guided support, this program helps turn intention into lasting change.
Complete an interest form today or reach out to Valerie Azinheira, Healthy Living Director at [email protected] or (650) 294-2603.
FAQs
Not at this time. It is open to any residents of Burlingame, Hillsborough, Millbrae, San Bruno, San Mateo, or Foster City.
You will receive:
- Membership pass to the YMCA (if not already a member)
- Introduction to new people
- Support from our amazing coaches
- Refreshments during each session
It is currently offered only at the Peninsula Family YMCA.
Peninsula Family YMCA
1877 S. Grant Street
San Mateo, CA 94402
We hope to expand it to other locations in the future.
We encourage all potential participants to submit an interest form.
You can submit an interest form here.
This program is free for any residents of Burlingame, Hillsborough, Millbrae, San Bruno, San Mateo, or Foster City.
Community as Medicine is a rolling program and is always accepting participants.
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