Planet Fitness has officially opened its doors in the heart of the community, bringing not only a new space for health and wellness but also a spirit of generosity. As part of its Red Ribbon Cutting celebration, the gym donated $1,000 to the Coordinated School Health Program for the local school district, offering a contribution aimed at supporting student well-being and promoting healthier lifestyles across area schools.
Accepting the donation at the establishment’s Red Ribbon Cutting, hosted by the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, was the Coordinated School Health Program Director, Chris Hawkersmith. Hawkersmith expressed deep gratitude and appreciation for the donation, stating that the funds will be used for physical education equipment for the physical education teachers.
“They’ll have more equipment for the kids to have a bigger variety of activities to participate in, whether it’s inside or outside.”, stated Hawkersmith. “The bottom line is getting them active and giving them choices while they’re active. The Coordinated School Health Program links academics with physical activity and physical education and we extend a big thank you to Planet Fitness for coming to the community and supporting the program. Students learn better when they’re more physically active and physically fit.”
Mike D’Andrea, Planet Fitness Regional Manager for Tennessee, showed enthusiasm behind the inspiration for the donation, stating that the Planet Fitness team was excited to be a part of the Franklin County community and happy to show their support.
“The program itself, Coordinated School Health, is something that promotes student well-being.”, stated D’Andrea. “I do have a statement here that they promoted through eight components. Health education, physical education, nutrition services, health services, counseling and mental health, healthy school environment, staff wellness, and family/community involvement. Planet Fitness is really a big part of a lot of those, as well.”
D’Angelo said that the establishment recognized the aligned values between the gym and the Coordinated School Health Program and they were excited to be a part of the health education and the judgment-free zone, which goes hand-in-hand with the gym’s policy.
“We want the community to know we’re here.”, stated the regional manager. “We’re really happy to be in the community and we truly hope to see everybody. We are truly the judgment-free zone. We live the judgement-free zone. And we welcome people in all stages on their fitness and health journeys. We would love for them to be a part of the Planet Fitness family.”
With its doors now open and its first act rooted in generosity, Planet Fitness is already making an impact beyond fitness. Through its collaboration with the Coordinated School Health Program, the gym is joining forces with local educators to champion youth wellness by supporting initiatives that encourage healthy habits, active lifestyles, and a brighter future for students across the district.
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