NORWAY – The Open Door, a new women’s resource center, will sponsor the first in a series of free talks on health from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 28 at Rick Bader Physical Therapy, 374 Main St., Norway.

Physical therapist Nancy Rich will speak about “Fitness on a Budget,” or ways to start an exercise program without having to commit the time and money for a gym membership.

Rich, who also has her doctoral degree in exercise science, has recently been hired by Bader to start a women’s health physical therapy program in Norway and Fryeburg. She is the current director of research for the Women’s Health Section of the American Physical Therapy Association and has recently completed a chapter on the topic of chronic musculoskeletal problems in women.

She will talk about how participation in a regaular program of exercise can reduce the pain of arthritis, depression and anxiety and extend life expectancy.

Judith Hayes, a board member with the resource center, said future programs will depend on what women in the community say they want.

The vision of The Open Door is to help women find the appropriate healthcare provider for themselves and their families, she said.

Organizers hope to eventually provide a community center and compile a comprehensive list of health resources for women.

“We want a place where women can come to find the help they need” in all areas related to health, Hayes said. The group received nonprofit status in September, and is currently selling a calendar to raise funds.