LeaAnn Blanchard, director of social services at The Orchards at Southington, third from left, gathers with members of Activate Southington and other grant recipients outside the Southington YMCA Women’s Health & Wellness Center. Blanchard’s program, “Laughter with LeaAnn,” received funding to support its expansion to several days each week. The program incorporates laughter, breathing exercises and stress relief to support better health in mind and body. Activate Southington is an on-going initiative to improve the overall health and wellness of Southington residents by providing opportunities for active living, healthy eating and physical activity. The Orchards at Southington, a not for profit member of Hartford HealthCare Senior Services, is an independent and assisted living community located at 34 Hobart St. For more information, visit http://southingtonorchards.org.
