Forgotten Coast Fitness and Wellness Center is racing against the clock to raise $120,000 in remaining funds needed to complete its new Eastpoint facility. Following an unexpected change to the nonprofit’s lease, the organization must vacate its current location by September 2, 2026, making the completion of the new facility essential to continued operations. 

The organization’s goal is to open the new fitness center by August 15, 2026, allowing time to transition members and equipment before the move-out deadline. Funds must be raised in the coming months for the interior construction buildout. 

Private Sector Support Powers the Project 

The relocation effort was made possible by an anonymous $1 million building donation from a St. George Island resident, providing Forgotten Coast Fitness with a brand new 8,000-square-foot facility in Eastpoint. Since the donation, a coalition of local businesses has contributed more than $200,000 in in-kind labor, materials, and equipment. This project, valued at over $1.3 million, is being completed entirely through private philanthropy and corporate support. Notably, no government funding or taxpayer dollars have been used. 

In-kind contributors include Construction & Design: Galloway Construction, CONN and Architects; Systems & Infrastructure: Cates Electric, Thompson Total Air Solutions, Keith McNeill Plumbing Contracting Inc.; and Supplies & Professional Services: Bayside Lumber and Building Supply, ACE Hardware, Sellers Beyond Title. 

Cash Funding Still Needed 

Local businesses, including Waters Street Seafood and St. George Island MedSpa and Wellness, are among the first corporations to pledge financial support. Additional contributions are urgently needed to close the remaining $120,000 gap. 

“This is a true community mission,” said Kara Landiss, board member of Forgotten Coast Fitness and Wellness Center and a Naumann Group Realtor. “Local businesses and corporate partners have stepped up in a huge way, and now we need the community’s help to finish the facility and open on schedule. This gym supports seniors, families, and young people, and it plays a real role in keeping Franklin County active and healthy.” 

Lives Changed Through Fitness 

For long-time member Sandra, the fitness center’s future is personal. “I joined after I fell and broke my femur and ribs. Working out here helped me regain my mobility, balance, and independence. This place gave me my freedom back, and I know it’s done the same for so many others.” 

Serving Residents and Visitors Across Franklin County 

The new Eastpoint facility will serve as a regional hub for residents of Apalachicola, St. George Island, Carrabelle, and Eastpoint. The center will offer state-of-the-art fitness equipment, locker rooms, showers, and 24-hour access, with the capacity to grow alongside the community. 

Media Access and Donor Opportunities 

Forgotten Coast Fitness welcomes media coverage and is prepared to provide tours of the facility currently under construction; interviews with members like Sandra, board members or other community partners; and visuals including high-resolution photos and video footage for print and television. 

Donations and corporate sponsorships are needed now to complete construction and open by August. For more information, to donate, or to learn about corporate sponsorship opportunities, visit https:// www.forgottencoastfitness.org or contact: Jim Jones | bod@ forgottencoastfitness.com