Detroit Non-Profit Opens Green Gym

DETROIT, Jan. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Cass Community Social Services (Cass) will further its commitment to the Detroit community and the environment on Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at 9:00 am when it opens the doors to its Green Gym.  The Green Gym is the nation's first workout facility created specifically for homeless men, women and children.  The grand opening of the Green Gym will mark a revolutionary step by Cass to improve its carbon footprint, reduce its energy costs and improve the quality of life for Detroit's most at-risk citizens.

The Green Gym will be the first of its kind. Nowhere else in the country have such innovations been implemented for the benefit of homeless citizens.  In addition to standard fitness equipment such as two weight machines, boxing bags, and a treadmill, 10 Green Revolution Technology™ enabled stationary bikes will generate electricity to be redirected into Cass' power grid.  Over one year of four daily classes, a full class of 10 at the Green Gym can generate enough power to light 36 homes for a month, or three homes for a year!

"Not only is this gym a good idea for the environment, but it will help build the general health of our clients who often struggle with diabetes or heart disease associated with obesity and weight gain," states Rev. Faith Fowler, Cass executive director.  "Stationary bikes offer accessible exercise for most levels of fitness and create an atmosphere for our growing healthy community."

Cass is a non-profit that frames its endeavors around its mission of "Fighting Poverty, Creating Opportunity," and formed another enterprise containing a multitude of benefits. Currently the issues of health, fitness and the environment dominate public forums and the political landscape.  By design, the Green Gym will have a meaningful effect in these areas, creating a "Win-Win-Win" situation for the non-profit agency, its constituents and the community.  

Initially, access to the Green Gym will be limited to the 240 men, women and children who live in Cass' facilities, Cass' 100 staff members and the organization's loyal volunteers.  The Green Gym will be staffed by volunteers and open six days a week, closed on Sundays.  Plans include offering fitness classes.

Cass' Green Gym is located inside its warehouse alongside its other Green Industries, at 12025 Woodrow Wilson, Detroit. 248-336-8360 casscommunity.org

SOURCE Cass Community Social Services