Nestled in a two-story home a few blocks from downtown Glendale, Wellness Works has for several decades offered holistic health treatments on a paid basis as well as free services to those who need them most — including people with debilitating diseases such as AIDS.
The center has also offered its services for free to veterans since 2007, but recently started monthly weekend clinics to attract more potential visitors.
“We are trying to get the word out, so they know it’s a safe place and they can come here,” said Kathy Lynch, the center’s director.
The veterans’ program has a special place in Lynch’s heart, as her father is a Korean War veteran.
“There was no help for them when they got back and no help for the family to know how to work with someone who had been so devastated by war and what they saw,” she said.
On Saturday, veterans and their families took part in a range of treatments, including massage and tai chi, in the large garden behind the home.
Pasadena resident Tracey Cooper Harris learned about the center from their local veterans’ affairs center. She took part in a few treatments and then enjoyed the quiet shade of the garden.
“This is a pretty calming environment,” she said. “Every time I come here it’s a great breath of fresh air.”
She said the center has helped her cope with the physical and mental toll of her 12 years in the Army, including a tour in Iraq after Sept. 11, 2001. She also commended the center for offering free services to her wife, who has struggled with the stress of starting a new career after losing her job as a teacher.
And for Griffith, who has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, Wellness Works has helped bring him a little more peace.
“Mentally, it’s helped me tremendously,” he said. “After an hour here, my mind comes to rest a little bit.”
