Small Steps for Big Changes

Who hosts the Small Steps for Big Changes Program?

Small Steps for Big Changes is a program of the YMCA of Northern BC in Prince George. It is also available in locations across Canada, as of 2025. Many recently diagnosed Diabetes type 2 participants often found their ‘numbers’ lowering, with the dietary suggestions and activity offered and recommended through this program. It soon spread nationally and received international attention through YMCA! Ken, the author of this post recently went through the program and could answer some questions if you have them, like how to apply for it.

The Program

The people behind the power of the YMCA observed the growing type 2 diabetes rate across Canada. They partnered with specialists and researchers. They developed the program in a few leading YMCA locations around the province of British Columbia as a pilot. It was popular. People were being introduced into activity, changing more than their diabetic life paths, shortly after diagnoses. Dietary advice was included with activities. It was very successful. In the spring of 2024, Facilitators for the program met with YMCA centers across Canada, and ended in Newfoundland.

Who are the particpants?

A participant in the program is pre-diagnosed or recently diagnosed type 2 diabetic. Successful applicants undergo a 2-year program. They are given an exercise program to test fitness levels during the first part of a 3-month session. A YMCA membership is encouraged; they have options for financial hardships. That’s a monthly or annual ‘subscription service’ that goes for a lifetime if you let it, generationally in many cases. Then, the SSBC program goes for 6 months of appointments , and the last part goes for a year between appointments. You may see their posters around your doctor’s office, the pharmacy, and walk-in clinics. Some other locations, too. Could you let us know where you’ll find it? Perhaps under the facebook post that this shares to.