A fitness initiative that is currently serving almost 150 individuals was launched in October had an official ribbon-cutting today. DD Homes Network has partnered with KCCDD to provide BEST Fit. BEST Fit is a comprehensive fitness program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Marilyn Holt is a Regional Director of Therapy Services for RFMS. “You know, we (were) kind of building on the Special Olympics to do something (to) meet the minimum exercise requirements for our adults that live in our group homes,” Holt said. “Really, truly, the last few months have been the realization of a dream. The 708 Knox County Mental Health Board gave us funding to allow us to buy the specialized equipment that we need and also to employ a Director of BEST Fit. Katie Bertelsen has been a great addition.” BEST Fit, along with the Knox County YMCA and volunteers from Knox College also offer “Friday Night Fitness” which introduces individuals to a broad range of physical activity. Exercise is provided at the new BEST Fit center at KCCDD, in group homes, and at the Knox County YMCA. KCCDD CEO Mark Rudolph said in a statement: “Since BEST Fit began, there is an excitement in our clients. BEST Fit has been a wonderful addition to our cleints’ days.” For more information, you can contact Katie Bertelsen, Director of BEST Fit at (309) 344-2600 extension 227.
