Our Community Legacy Project - Senior Group Fitness Studio at The Carmel Foundation's New Health & Wellness Center
The Leadership Carmel Class of 2025 is honored to spearhead the buildout of the Group Fitness Studio in the new Carmel Foundation Health & Wellness Center as their legacy community project. This initiative marks the first completed space in the new Health & Wellness Center and represents a significant investment in the future of senior health in Carmel and the surrounding areas.
What Will the Group Fitness Studio Offer?
A flexible, multi-purpose space designed for a variety of senior exercise classes, including:
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Balance and core training
- Cardio
About the Carmel Foundation Health & Wellness Center
The Carmel Foundation is a cherished resource in our community, serving over 2,500 members aged 55 and older. With a mission to support successful aging, the Foundation provides activities and services that nurture physical health, emotional well-being, cognitive vitality, and social connections.
To expand these efforts, the Foundation acquired the former American Red Cross building, now being transformed into a Health & Wellness Center. This new facility plans to offer:
- Cardio and strength training equipment
- A juice bar
- Enhanced health services
- A Group Fitness Studio
Why a Group Fitness Studio?
Our class selected the Group Fitness Studio renovation because senior fitness classes are more than just exercise—they are gateways to improved health, confidence, and community.
Research shows that for seniors, regular participation in group fitness:
- Enhances physical health: Increases strength, balance, and flexibility while reducing the risk of falls.
- Boosts mental well-being: Promotes cognitive function and emotional resilience.
- Fosters connections: Builds friendships and community bonds that encourage regular participation.
Renovation Details & Timeline
The completion of the studio is targeted for June 2025, coinciding with Leadership Carmel’s Class Graduation and The Carmel Foundation’s 75th Anniversary Celebration.
The renovations will include:
- Demolition of the current layout
- Installation of a durable fitness floor to support various exercise activities
- Mirrored walls with balance bars to enhance safety and posture during classes
- Ambient lighting to create a welcoming and energizing atmosphere
- Addition of equipment specifically tailored for senior fitness programs
The renovations will be carried out by Leadership Carmel in collaboration with local craftsmen, businesses, and volunteers. This partnership exemplifies a shared commitment to community service and strengthens connections within the community.
Meet the 2025 Class
Kurtis Carpenter
Marketing Coordinator
Sothebys International Realty
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Kimberlie Guerrieri
Director of Marketing & Membership
Carmel Chamber of Commerce
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Theresa Hamilton
Member Service Manager
Monterey Credit Union
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Join Us in Supporting This Vision
The Carmel Foundation’s Group Fitness Studio depends on the generosity of individuals and businesses who value the health and vitality of our senior community.
As part of the Carmel Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Leadership Carmel is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Donations made to the Carmel Chamber of Commerce Foundation are tax deductible in accordance with current IRS regulations.
Our Tax ID is 84-3375773.
Your support will:
- Create a safe, welcoming space for fitness and fellowship
- Provide fitness equipment and resources
- Help seniors live healthier, more active lives
- Be a part of something meaningful! Your contribution will leave a lasting impact on the lives of countless seniors in our community.
How to Donate
Ready to make a difference? Donations of any size bring us closer to realizing this vision.
Please make checks out to the Carmel Chamber of Commerce Foundation
Donations can be mailed to:
Carmel Chamber of Commerce Foundation
PO Box 4444
Carmel, California 93921
Online donation information coming soon.
Together, we can build a healthier, stronger Carmel for everyone!