Cape district honors Everyone Fitness as community champion

The Cape Henlopen School District recognized Everyone Fitness as its Sussex Consortium Community Champion Award for January.

The award honors community partners who demonstrate outstanding commitment to supporting students through meaningful, real-world learning opportunities.

The partnership between the Cape Henlopen High School Vocational Program and Everyone Fitness began in 2023 and has provided students with valuable hands-on work experience four times a week. Through this collaboration, students build employability skills, gain confidence, and learn the importance of responsibility and teamwork in a professional setting.

While on site, students complete a variety of tasks that support daily operations at the fitness center, including filling bottles; washing, folding and restocking towels; dusting workout equipment; wiping ledges, seats and tables throughout the gym and spin bike areas; cleaning mirrors and front doors; vacuuming; and maintaining the coffee bar and main counters. These responsibilities help students develop transferable skills that prepare them for future employment.

Following the completion of their work, students are encouraged to enjoy the wellness-focused environment by participating in a workout, relaxing in hydro-chairs for a massage or enjoying a protein shake. In addition, Everyone Fitness shows its appreciation by hosting a luncheon for students before winter break and again at the conclusion of the school year.

“Everyone Fitness has created a welcoming and supportive environment where our students feel valued and respected,” said Dr. Eileen Baker, supervisor of inclusive education. “This partnership allows our students to gain meaningful work experience while also promoting health, wellness and community connection.”