One Planet Fitness franchisee in West Baltimore is going all out to help youth get active and improve their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing, building a “mini Judgement Free Zone” inside the Baltimore Ravens Boys & Girls Club at Hilton Recreation Center.
The franchisee, Ohana Growth Partners (OGP), built and equipped the mini Judgement Free Zone with MJM Architects and CG Builders. Decorated in Planet Fitness signature purple and yellow, the gym for kids has cardio, strength, and functional exercise equipment. It is a 568-square-foot mini fitness center replicating the Judgement Free environment of Planet Fitness clubs.
“We are super excited to be able to partner with Planet Fitness and Ohana Growth Partners on this mini Judgement Free Zone®,” said Andre Fountain, Director, External Affairs and Strategic Initiatives of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Baltimore (BGCMB). “The new fitness space positively impacts young people here in the Boys & Girls Club, providing them access to build their physical fitness and help them on their journey to be active for life.”
The space is built for youth members ages 13 and older, giving them the chance to exercise in an inclusive and encouraging environment, without being judged.
“When we heard that the new Boys & Girls Club would be designed as a place for youth to learn, lead and thrive and move, and that the Baltimore Ravens, Bisciotti Family Foundation and so many other amazing partners were getting involved, we knew this was something monumental and needed to be part of,” said Justin Drummond, president of OGP.
OGP has a long history of supporting BGCMB, including hosting health and wellness days at OGP clubs, sending fitness trainers to BGCMB events, sponsoring hundreds of children to attend Orioles games over the last four years, helping with fundraising, mentoring, and supporting BGCMB’s Passport to Manhood program. Drummond serves as an advisory board member with the BGCMB.
“The mini Judgement Free Zone® complements the Center’s exceptional amenities and further BGCMB’s positive impact on the West Baltimore community,” Drummond said. “It’s an investment that keeps giving and an investment in the kids’ future selves.”
Planet Fitness Judgement Free Generation is a national philanthropic initiative to build self-confidence in youth, champion inclusivity, and spread kindness. The mini Judgement Free Zone is an extension of that initiative. The Baltimore Ravens Boys & Girls Club at Hilton Recreation Center is located at 2950 Phelps Ln., Baltimore, MD.
