Grant Summary Report for the FCIDD
We are delighted to present this summary report to the FCIDD, detailing the outcomes of the 2023 grant, generously supported by your esteemed foundation. The grant provided by the FCIDD has been instrumental in advancing our mission to build healthy communities by providing access to fitness and wellness opportunities for Maryland residents with disabilities.
With the support of the FCIDD and the local Silver Spring and Baltimore Civitan clubs, we were able to award fitness equipment to 3 prominent locations in Maryland and support an inclusive gym in Kensington. This grant enabled us to reach 4 beneficiaries that support hundreds of individuals with disabilities each year and achieve fitness and wellness programs within their facilities, significantly enhancing the impact of our work in Montgomery, Baltimore and Prince George’s Counties.
The following report outlines the activities carried out, the milestones achieved, and the transformative impact of your support. We are deeply grateful for the FCIDD’s commitment to supporting children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and look forward to sharing the detailed results of this initiative.
Athelas Institute
The partnership between Athelas Institute and Spirit Club continues to thrive, advancing their shared mission of supporting adults with intellectual and developmental differences. Currently, the Spirit Club Foundation provides grant-funded equipment that enables personal training sessions for 26 individuals and offers 7 private classes for 84 participants, alongside 2 public sessions involving 30 participants. In total, around 140 individuals benefit from these weekly activities. Spirit Club staff express gratitude and feel fortunate to support this community with tailored sessions using modern equipment, although they note that equipment upgrades and maintenance could further enhance their services. Looking ahead, plans include expanding personal training classes and introducing specialty classes like Zumba, drumming, and yoga. With a growing interest from potential clients and a near-zero attrition rate, the Spirit Team is prepared to triple its growth in the next nine months. Both teams are enthusiastic about continuing this successful partnership and exploring future initiatives.
Spectrum Support
The introduction of gym equipment has significantly benefited our organization by enhancing the quality and variety of physical activities available to participants. Regular sessions, typically held at the park or recreation center, have fostered teamwork and camaraderie, particularly through the use of popular equipment like the parachute. The equipment's user-friendly design and manageable weight have made it accessible, and the support provided by staff during sessions has been well-received. A successful class with Spirit Club instructors sparked further interest in exercise, prompting participants to take on leadership roles in organizing sessions, thereby promoting leadership and teamwork. The boxing gloves, in particular, have been a valuable stress-reliever, allowing participants to practice skills and experience a sense of empowerment.
Staff have also benefited, with one member successfully using the equipment to support their weight loss journey post-surgery. The upcoming class on July 18th is eagerly anticipated, with plans to expand participation and incorporate diverse activities like boxing, hula hoop dance, agility exercises, and weight lifting. This new array of equipment has not only provided more options than just walking around a track but has also supported a broader wellness culture within the organization.
ARC of Prince George’s County
Since receiving the generous donation of fitness equipment, approximately 10-15 individuals participate weekly during the Tuesday Spirit Club sessions, with an additional 4-5 staff and supported individuals using the equipment daily. The equipment was recently integrated into a "Field Day" event, where it was utilized as part of obstacle courses, demonstrating its versatility. The staff and individuals, including those who use wheelchairs, greatly appreciate the equipment. It has been a valuable addition, providing an inclusive fitness option and promoting a supportive environment where everyone encourages one another.
The organization plans to launch a Senior's program soon, incorporating the fitness equipment to help seniors maintain or improve their health, strength, and endurance. Additionally, all programs will be relocated to a new building as current leases expire. This new location will feature a dedicated gym, enhancing the fitness opportunities for both individuals and staff. The organization's commitment to improving the health and well-being of everyone involved continues to be a priority.
SPIRIT Club - Gym Expansion
SPIRIT Club is happy to have finally got to the approved permit stage of the construction process. The expansion space is starting to take shape for the new walls and old walls to come down. Spirit Club Foundation was able to take a tour of the messy space to see new ADA bathrooms underway and to see where the new walls will be placed and how the original space will flow into the new expansion space. SPIRIT Club will invite the FCIDD to their open house once it is complete.
The Spirit Club Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to champion the well-being of individuals with disabilities, empowered by the generous grant from the FCIDD. The partnership has catalyzed significant growth and innovation, as evidenced by the transformative impact on the Athelas Institute, Spectrum Support, and the ARC of Prince George’s County. With the successful introduction and utilization of new fitness equipment, our beneficiaries have experienced enhanced wellness and empowerment, underscoring the importance of accessible fitness opportunities. Looking forward, we are excited to see that these organizations will be expanding their offerings, including personal training, specialty classes, and new senior programs. The Spirit Club Foundation is committed to nurturing inclusive fitness environments and exploring new initiatives, all while expressing our deep gratitude to the FCIDD for their unwavering support. As we prepare for future endeavors, including the gym expansion support for SPIRIT Club in Kensington, MD, we are poised to continue growing and positively impacting the lives of those we serve. Together, we will persist in creating vibrant, healthy communities for people with disabilities.
With deepest regards,
Kim Schofield
Executive Director, Spirit Club Foundation