Small Steps for Big Changes

One-on-one coaching to lower your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

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Small Steps for Big Changes

Program Description

We know that big changes happen when you have someone in your corner. Small Steps for Big Changes pairs you with an empathetic health coach who listens to understand your unique needs. We provide the structure and accountability necessary to help you lower your diabetes risk, empowering you to build sustainable, healthy habits that last a lifetime.

4 Weeks
Free
One-on-one
Y Membership Required: No
Small Steps for Big Changes
Program overview

Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis. The positive news is that early lifestyle changes can significantly reduce risk.

Small Steps for Big Changes is an evidence based counselling program that helps people make long lasting changes to their eating habits, physical activity, and overall lifestyle to lower their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

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Participants learn how to build realistic habits that fit everyday life, feel supported in their journey, and gain confidence in their ability to create change.

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If the risk test shows that you may be at higher risk for prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes, you can sign up for the program or join the mailing list if your location has not yet launched.

Program benefits
  • Personalized coaching:
    • One on one sessions explore your goals, barriers, motivations, and strengths in a supportive way
    • Six personalized coaching sessions to help you begin exercise and nutrition changes
  • Sustainable habit building:
    • Learn how to increase physical activity, make realistic dietary adjustments, and create routines that fit your lifestyle
  • Long term support:
    • Stay connected through structured follow up sessions at 1, 6, 12, and 24 months to help maintain progress
    • Long term accountability check-ins
  • Research backed results:
    • A welcoming program grounded in behavioural science and real world success
    • Studies show that participants continue exercising and improve independent diabetes risk factors months and years after completing the program.
  • Accessible and community centered:
    • Thanks to partnerships and aligned values, the program is offered at no cost at the Prince George Family YMCA
Program eligibility
  • Adults at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes
  • Individuals who complete the online risk screening
  • Located in Prince George or surrounding communities
  • No Y membership required
  • Take the eligibility test here.
Program schedule
  • Training Phase
    • Six one on one coaching sessions over four weeks
  • Support Phase
    • Check-ins at 1, 6, 12, and 24 months after completion
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  • Programs run year round at the Prince George Family YMCA
  • Complete the online risk test to see if you are eligible
  • Please call 250-552-5368 for more information or for referrals

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Small Steps for Big Changes
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Program FAQs

Find answers to common questions about our program below.

Who is this program for?

Small Steps for Big Changes is designed for adults who may be at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and are ready to make sustainable changes to their habits.

How do I know if I qualify?

You begin by completing a quick online risk test. If you are eligible, you can register or join the mailing list for upcoming sessions.

Is the program really free?

Yes. Through community partnership and aligned values, the program is currently offered at no cost at the Prince George Family YMCA.

Why is there long term follow up?

Sustainable behaviour change takes time. Check-ins at 1, 6, 12, and 24 months help you stay accountable, celebrate progress, and adjust goals when needed.

What happens during the coaching sessions?

You will meet one on one with a trained coach who helps you set goals, build strategies, troubleshoot challenges, and feel supported as you take steps toward healthier habits.

When you join the YMCA you join more than a gym. You join a community.