Madonna Learning Center (MLC) has long provided an educational and social environment for individuals with special needs. However, over time, staff began to recognize a growing need for more opportunities to get moving — and to stay moving.
For students and adults at MLC, fitness is a gateway to confidence, independence, and connection. And in its state-of-the-art Fitness Center, that mission has come to life.
“In 2014, a volunteer fell in love with the school and left us his fitness equipment,” explained Jo Gilbert, MLC’s executive director. “Students loved learning new skills and trying the equipment, many for the first time.”
Over the years, the machines were worn out, and then COVID-19 shut down in-person activities. By 2022, Gilbert remarked, “We noticed our students and staff had become sedentary and less active.”
Thanks to the generosity of donors, MLC was able to build a new, dedicated fitness facility equipped with modern equipment and a new vision for wellness. By 2023, the Fitness Center was buzzing with activity.
A Fitness Center Designed for All
MLC’s Fitness Center isn’t your typical gym. Every detail is thoughtfully designed to ensure accessibility and comfort for a diverse range of ages and abilities.
“We have equipment for students with limited mobility,” said Gilbert. Features such as swivel bike seats, pull-down bars accessible from wheelchairs, and open floor space ensure that everyone can participate safely and comfortably. “Equipment is paired alike so friends can exercise together,” she adds, underscoring the Center’s spirit of inclusion and connection.
JD McMillian, MLC’s fitness and physical education instructor, says the variety of machines and open space allows him to tailor workouts to each student’s needs. “All of our cardio machines are capable of moving forward and backward so students can safely sit down and get situated,” he shared.
Building Strength and Confidence
The Fitness Center’s impact reaches far beyond physical health. For many students, it has been transformative in terms of building confidence, improving mental health, and fostering social bonds.
“In the beginning, there was reluctance from students who didn’t like to move much,” Gilbert noted. “But now they love working out and getting stronger. It’s been life-changing.”
McMillian has also witnessed dramatic personal growth in the students. “I’ve worked with two students who’ve seen vast improvements — in how they look, how they move, and how they act,” he reflected. “Fitness has helped them reach new heights in and out of the weight room.”
A Wide Range of Ways to Move
Madonna’s approach goes beyond treadmills and weights. Through its fitness and after-school programs, students can explore yoga, dance, cheer, soccer, and more through partnerships like the Soccer Shots Empower Program for children with disabilities.
“Our students love to play and have fun,” said Gilbert. MLC surveys families and staff to select activities that align with students’ interests. “Our programs let students connect with friends in an environment that is structured to meet their individual needs and encourages them to improve their skills.”
Sports and fitness also foster essential life skills. “Learning how to communicate together and as a team is huge for camaraderie and development,” McMillian emphasized. “It forces them to step out of their comfort zones. Often, they discover they’re good at a sport, or that they enjoy it.”
Vision for the Future
The future is bright for MLC’s fitness programming. Gilbert and McMillian both hope to launch a weightlifting team to compete with the Special Olympics, introducing more students to sports while continuing to build confidence.
“There’s a whole community outside of Madonna who can benefit from a safe and encouraging place to get in shape,” McMillian added.
MLC also plans to offer adult fitness classes after hours for staff and possibly the broader community.
Fitness at MLC is a vehicle for building confidence, fostering connection, and promoting lifelong empowerment. As the Center looks to the future, its vision is clear: to build a healthier, more inclusive community where every individual has the tools to thrive.
Madonna Learning Center welcomes support from the Memphis community, whether through volunteering, coaching, or sharing fitness expertise with students. From after-school classes to partnering on events, there are countless ways to help MLC expand access to wellness. For more information, visit Madonna-learning.org.
By Beth Wilson
