fitALANYC in August: Updates, Events, and Community

National Wellness Month, celebrated each August, is dedicated to promoting self-care, stress management, and healthy routines that support physical, mental, and emotional well-being—established by the National Wellness Institute (NWI), a nonprofit founded in 1977 to advance wellness as a national priority. National Wellness Month was created to encourage people to be proactive about their health before problems arise.  It highlights how wellness is more than the absence of illness; it’s a holistic lifestyle incorporating exercise, balanced nutrition, mindfulness, and adequate rest. The month serves as a reminder that small, consistent changes can lead to long-term improvements in health and quality of life.

In New York City, National Wellness Month is recognized through community workshops, free outdoor fitness classes like yoga in the park, workplace wellness challenges, mindfulness events, and social media campaigns that encourage residents to focus on healthy habits. Organizations such as the NYC Department of Health, local wellness studios, and nonprofits often host events and share resources to make wellness accessible across all five boroughs. These efforts foster a culture of prevention, resilience, and balance, aligning with the observance’s mission to inspire healthier communities. More information can be found at Be Well @ NY.Govand The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) 

Resetting for the Fall marks the transition from summer’s relaxation into the structured rhythm of autumn. It encompasses both the Back-to-School period, where students, parents, and educators refocus on learning, routines, and emotional adjustment, and Caregiver Support, recognizing those caring for children or elderly family members who may face added responsibilities during the shift. While not designated as an official “month,” this seasonal observance reflects a culturally acknowledged time for reestablishing healthy routines, emotional preparedness, and support systems. Its informal roots lie in traditional calendars and community health messaging that emphasize the importance of planning and self-care as routines tighten, and stressors may return.

This seasonal reset is essential because it promotes smoother transitions, reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed, and supports mental wellness during a period often marked by heightened demands—be it homework loads, scheduling conflicts, or caregiving tasks. New York City recognizes this time by hosting local schools’ orientation sessions, family resource fairs, and counseling services; community centers offering workshops on time management or stress relief; and caregiver organizations hosting support groups and informational seminars (primarily through elder-care centers or parent networks). Public libraries, health clinics, and local nonprofits may expand their programming in early fall to include back-to-school readiness and caregiver refreshers.  

fitALANYC has compiled resources to support your back-to-school needs and caregiver resources.


Mindfulness Minutes

fitALANYC provides our members and business partners with holistic education and programming that focuses on your physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being. Mindfulness Minutes is a series of on-demand sessions where we explore all forms of mindfulness. Check out Mary Micari, Vice President and co-team lead for fitALANYC, as she leads us in a meditation that covers Loving and Kindness.


Coming in September 

2025 Susan G. Komen Greater NYC Breast Cancer Race for the Cure | Saturday, September 7 | Central Park

fitALANYC is thrilled to partner with our amazing Business Partners—Innovative Computing Systems, Inc., Afinety, Kraft Kennedy, Sorbis, and All Covered—to form Team ALANYC for this year’s Susan G. Komen Greater NYC Race for the Cure!

Last year’s race was a blast, and we’re gearing up for an even better experience this year. Whether you walk, run, or participate virtually, your involvement matters. Together, we can help end breast cancer.

Register now on our team page – TEAM ALANYC 2025

Chapter Members: There’s even more good news: No matter when you sign up, your registration is FREE! Thanks to the generosity of our Business Partners, your fee is completely covered. Just use code ALANYC2025 at checkout.

Special Thanks
A heartfelt thank you to: Mathew Mendel of Innovative Computing Systems, Inc.; Brian Monahan of All Covered; Gene August of Sorbis; Tommy Rotunno of Afinety; and Tracy Kraft and Caesar Rodriguez of Kraft Kennedy. Your organization’s sponsorship makes this all possible!

At fitALANYC, we’re dedicated to supporting the full well-being of our members. This cause is close to our hearts—1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. The work of Susan G. Komen is critical, and we’re proud to walk, run, and rally behind it. Join us. Fundraise. Make a difference. Let’s Race for the Cure—together.


Long Island Crisis Center (LICC) 17th Annual “Let’s Walk, Let’s Talk: Stepping Together to Prevent Suicide”
Sunday September 21st, 2025 | Long Beach, NY

September is National Suicide Month and Long Island Crisis Center (LICC) has been a dependable community resource since 1971, continually providing compassionate 24/7 crisis and suicide intervention services to residents during the most critical times in their lives.

In 2024 alone, their dedicated counselors answered nearly 25,000 calls from individuals in crisis on our eight different hotlines, which include:

  • 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
  • Middle Earth Hotline
  • Huntington Hotline
  • Children of Hope Hotline
  • Town of Hempstead Senior Helpline
  • Nassau County Behavioral Health Helpline
  • New York State HIV Hotline

Join ALANYC as we support LICC on its 17th Annual “Let’s Walk, Let’s Talk: Stepping Together to Prevent Suicide” in Long Beach, NY. 
More details we be forthcoming!