Benevilla recently received a generous grant from the Diane & Bruce Halle Foundation to support their Benefitness Adaptive Gym. The funds in part will provide membership scholarships for older adults in our community who would benefit from the programs and resources of the gym but need financial assistance to do so.
“Benevilla extends a heartfelt, “Thank You” to the Diane and Bruce Halle Foundation for their generous support” said Joanne Thomson, President, and CEO of Benevilla. “This gift will allow us to help even more members of our community struggling with the effects of aging, living with a temporary or permanent disability, had stroke or fall or are differently-abled.”
The Benefitness Adaptive Gym ensures physical fitness, and a healthy lifestyle is no longer out of reach for anyone. Launched in July, the gym is already exceeding membership projections. Lorrie Karn, the Director of Benefitness and her team of specially trained “Coaches” provide specialized group and individual fitness programs and classes helping strengthen those with early onset diagnoses and physical ailments (e.g., Parkinson’s, dementia, MS, and more). They also improve a member’s physical efficiencies, mental acuity, strength, balance, and overall wellbeing. Unlike a typical gym, Benefitness provides modified equipment for individuals in wheelchairs, people who have limited motion, and those who are differently abled.
“We are so excited to be the first location in the Northwest Valley offering an adaptive gym and Rock Steady Boxing to those in our community facing the challenges of aging and early stages of dementia,” said Lorrie. “Our programs will help improve the quality of life of our members, improve their strength and balance and improve their ability to perform routine tasks of daily life.”
A healthy food and smoothie bar, Birt’s Café, is also now open in the gym as well as the “Caregiver Retreat.” This is a unique caregiver relaxation space with massage chairs, aromatherapy, water feature and a conversation area.
If you would like more information on Benefitness or our membership scholarship program, please call Benefitness at 623-584-0065.
Established in 1981, Benevilla is a not-for-profit family services agency dedicated to enriching the lives of West Valley residents by providing care services for older adults, adults with disabilities, children, and families. For more information on services, volunteer opportunities, to take a tour or donate to Benevilla, call 623-584-4999 or visit www.benevilla.org.