By Al Bangoura
Unfortunately, Running Wolf was no longer able to operate the fitness center at the Phillips Community Center. We would like to thank staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly to make the fitness center a success and for all their efforts and care that was provided for the community who used the fitness center every day. We also want to thank Connie Norman for her leadership and dedication to Running Wolf and the community. Thank you Connie!
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, recognizing the value of the fitness center to the community and its role in providing services to its residents, entered into an agreement with Indian Health Board and the Native American Community Clinic to take over operation of the fitness center starting in January 2014..
To help make this transition as fluid as possible, The MPRB is working to ensure as little change as possible to the fitness center users, for example:
- Operating hours will remain the same, 10am-7pm Monday ”“ Thursday, and Saturdays 10am-2pm. Phillips Fitness Center is now open 10am-7pm Mon-Fri and Sat10am-2pm
- Monthly dues will remain at $10.00 per month
- Members can re-register with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board at the fitness center and will be issued a membership card.
- There will still be personal trainers and group fitness classes available at the center, instructors will be scheduled over the next few weeks.
- The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board thanks all of the users for their patience and understanding during this time of transition, and look forward to providing the best service possible promoting healthy living at Phillips Community Center. Again, MPRB”'s purpose is to continue the essential services that was provided for our community and continue to provide for the health and well-being of our community which we serve every day. If you have any question please contact Anthony Papa at 612-370-4946 and he will be more than happy to give further detail and information.
- Al Bangoura, CPRP Former Director of Recreation Centers and Programs. Al has moved out of state because of new employment in his family.
- Phillips Fitness Center has a certified personal trainer on site to help members reach their fitness goals.
- The Fitness Center is now open Mon.-Sat. (6 days a week instead of 5). Mon.-Fri. 10am-7pm and Sat. 10am-2pm
- The Fitness Center now has 249 members.
- The MPRB have partnerships with Native American Community Clinic, Indian Health Board, Minneapolis American Indian Center, Nawayee Center School, Kateri Residence, Eastside Neighborhood Services, and Health Partners/Children”'s Hospital (Vida Sana).
- Group fitness programs are available Mon.-Fri. for all members. Please see attached schedule. (ie. Self-Defense, Step Class, Cardio-Kick box, Yoga, and Zumba-Vida Sana)
- All group fitness instructors are VOLUNTEERS!
