As a student at our program, each woman is given a full scholarship to the Healthworks Gym located at another shelter/multi-service center in Dorchester. We go as a group to the gym twice a month. The women are welcome and encouraged to go at their own time. They are given incentives (self-care products, clothing, or other exercise items) from our program as well as Healthworks, to go to the gym as much as possible. At the gym, the women are given individual cardiovascular and weight training programs. They also have extensive training about nutrition and prevention methods for heart disease, breast cancer, osteoporosis, and other conditions, which affect women, especially African Americans. They are also required to do regular reflection and freewriting on their journeys to becoming more fit. These classes are particularly helpful because the teacher, gym consultants, and guest lecturers provide the women with resources regarding their personal health issues. They also encourage women to seek help for themselves.

The women say that they enjoy the health class because it teaches them how to live a healthier lifestyle. They feel empowered because they learn important facts that they can share with their families. Knowing that they can share new knowledge with their families gives them confidence that compels them to continue their educational journeys.