The Forgotten Coast Fitness and Wellness Center, slated to vacate its current location at the former Apalachicola High School building by Sept. 2, is looking to raise $120,000 in remaining funds needed to complete its new Eastpoint facility.
Jim Jones, vice president of the nonprofit organization, said the goal is to open the new fitness center by August 15, which would allow time to transition members and equipment before the move-out deadline. Funds must be raised in the coming months for the interior construction buildout, he said.
The relocation effort was made possible by an anonymous $1 million building donation from a St. George Island resident, which provided Forgotten Coast Fitness with a new 8,000-square foot facility in Eastpoint. Since the donation, a coalition of local businesses has contributed more than $200,000 in in-kind labor, materials, and equipment.
The interior work has begun on the new facility. [ Forgotten Coast Fitness and Wellness Center ]
This project, valued at over $1.3 million, is being completed entirely through private philanthropy and corporate support. Notably, no government funding or taxpayer dollars have been used.
In-kind contributors for construction and design have come from Galloway Construction and CONN and Architects, while donations for systems and infrastructure have come from Cates Electric, Thompson Total Air Solutions and Keith McNeill Plumbing Contracting Inc.,ad for supplies and professional services from Bayside Lumber and Building Supply, ACE Hardware, Sellers Beyond Title
Jones said local businesses, including Water Street Seafood and St. George Island MedSpa and Wellness are among the first corporations to pledge financial support.
“This is a true community mission,” said Kara Landiss, board member of the fitness center. “Local businesses and corporate partners have stepped up in a huge way, and now we need the community’s help to finish the facility and open on schedule. This gym supports seniors, families, and young people, and it plays a real role in keeping Franklin County active and healthy.”
A workman secures the roof of the new site. [ Forgotten Coast Fitness and Wellness Center ]
For one long-time member, the fitness center’s future is personal.
“I joined after I fell and broke my femur and ribs,” she said. “Working out here helped me regain my mobility, balance, and independence. This place gave me my freedom back, and I know it’s done the same for so many others.”
The new Eastpoint facility will serve as a regional hub for residents of Apalachicola, St. George Island, Carrabelle, and Eastpoint. The center will offer state-of-the-art fitness equipment, locker rooms, showers, and 24-hour access, with the capacity to grow alongside the community.
For more information, to donate, or to learn about corporate sponsorship opportunities, visit www.forgottencoastfitness.org or email Jim Jones at [email protected]
