PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) – Local residents living with Parkinson’s disease received a major boost in their corner over the weekend thanks to community grant funding.
On Saturday, the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation (PACF) visited the YMCA of Parkersburg to present a $3,300 check to support its Rock Steady Boxing program.
The non-contact boxing curriculum is specifically designed to help individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease combat symptoms by improving balance, hand-eye coordination, agility, and overall mobility. Originally founded in 2006 inside an Indianapolis gym, the Rock Steady Boxing model has expanded to more than 850 affiliate locations across the globe.
The local grant was made possible through the David Couch Fund, an advised fund administered by the PACF. Maribeth Saleem-Tanner, senior program officer with the foundation, said the funding is intended to eliminate financial hurdles so anyone in the community who can benefit from the classes is able to participate.
“One of the things that we were really excited about to be able to present this check is getting the word out about this program. I don’t know if a lot of people know that it’s right here in Parkersburg at the YMCA,” Saleem-Tanner said. “The David Couch Fund that presented this grant, one of the things that the funding does is that it pays for the instructor certification, the equipment, but it can also help cover class fees. If anyone wants to be a part of this and is concerned about costs, that grant can help. We love the fact that it’s right here, and we want more people to take advantage of it.”
Each Saturday morning, participants begin the session with a volleyball warm-up drill to encourage quick reaction times before putting on gloves. From there, fighters rotate through a series of three targeted circuit stations focused on motor skills, strength, and core stability.
Beyond the physical benefits of high-intensity exercise, Saleem-Tanner emphasized that the program provides an invaluable support network for both participants and the loved ones who stand by them.
“As you saw in the class, they’re doing boxing activities and other physical work, but it’s also a chance for people, caregivers, family members, to connect every week and spend time together,” Saleem-Tanner said.
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