“When I am active, I notice a huge difference in overall activities, regular strengthening and improved balance,” says Devina Roblas, crediting Goodwill of Orange County’s Rogers A. Severson Fitness & Technology Center as the catalyst that allows her to stay fit.
After experiencing a spinal cord injury that put her in a wheelchair, Devina could no longer work out at a traditional gym. She wanted to stay healthy, but working out and using fitness equipment looked a lot different for her. That’s when she was referred to the Goodwill Fitness & Technology Center.
Beyond its array of accessible workout equipment, Devina discovered the Goodwill Fitness & Technology Center offers so much more for someone seeking a comprehensive workout regime.
For the past eight years, Devina has participated in Zumba classes, after-hours rugby games, and consistent workouts at Goodwill’s Fitness & Technology Center.
“Everyone here is great,” said Devina. “The staff is always around to help with transfers and using the machines.”
“Elizabeth is wonderful and has helped me a lot. She helped me get a new wheelchair which was great because it is super light and convenient,” continued Devina, referring to the Goodwill Fitness & Technology Center’s Manager, Elizabeth Toumajian, who has been with the facility since it opened in 2008.
Devina’s praise for the center doesn’t stop there.
“The Fitness Center is a great resource just for overall well-being and daily fitness. So many people get injured and if you don’t stay active – you will just deteriorate. It’s better to make fitness some kind of routine, even if it’s only two times a week, so that you are constantly working towards improvement.”
This year, Goodwill of Orange County’s Rogers A. Severson Fitness & Technology Center celebrates its 10thAnniversary. For a decade, the Goodwill Fitness & Technology Center has helped people living with a physical disability or chronic illness achieve their highest degree of physical independence. With specialized equipment, inclusive fitness classes and knowledgeable personal trainers, its extraordinary 12,000-square-foot center provides everything individuals need to improve strength, cardiovascular conditioning, coordination and mobility.
The Fitness & Technology Center’s physical therapy team is committed to providing the right programs for people with neurological disabilities, orthopedic injuries and other medical barriers to physical independence. Working closely with each individual member, physical therapists offer proven fitness options to give high-quality rehabilitation experiences and a full program of injury prevention, fitness, and wellness.
With a decade of experience under their belts, Goodwill of Orange County isn’t slowing down anytime soon. As the organization looks ahead to the next 10 years, they plan to expand the Goodwill Fitness & Technology Center’s service offerings and clientele to make an even greater impact in the Orange County community.
At Goodwill, we believe in the power of work. At the Goodwill Fitness & Technology Center, we are equally inspired by the power of working out.
Goodwill of Orange County’s Rogers A. Severson Fitness & Technology Center is located at 1601 E. St. Andrew Place, Santa Ana, CA 92705. To learn more or set up a tour, call 888-OCFITCENTER (888-623-4823) or visit: https://www.ocgoodwill.org/changing-lives/goodwill-fitness-center.
