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Recess at the Lake fitness & wellness event gives back to the community

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, September 15th 2025 at 2:28 GMT by WECT
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Recess Lake Fitness & Wellness Event Gives Back to Wilmington Community

September 15, 2025 – Wilmington, NC
In a vibrant display of community spirit, the Recess Lake Fitness & Wellness event, held this weekend at Recess Lake in Wilmington, drew nearly 1,200 participants from across the region. The one‑day program, organized by the nonprofit Recess Lake Foundation, combined health‑focused activities with a charitable fundraising mission, raising more than $30,000 for local youth and senior programs.

A Day of Movement, Mind, and Mercy

The event kicked off at 8:30 a.m. with a sunrise yoga session led by certified instructor Maya Patel. “Starting the day with mindful breathing sets the tone for the whole day,” Patel told reporters on the lakeside deck. As the sun climbed, the schedule swelled to include a high‑intensity interval training (HIIT) class, Zumba, and a series of fitness challenges for kids and adults alike.

A “Wellness Pavilion” anchored the event’s educational component. Local health professionals from the Wilmington Clinic and the U of NC’s School of Medicine offered free health screenings—blood pressure, cholesterol, and body mass index—alongside nutrition workshops. One of the standout sessions was a “Mindful Eating” talk by nutritionist Dr. Luis Ortega, who emphasized the role of balanced diets in sustaining long‑term health.

The event’s centerpiece was the “Community Health Marathon,” a 5‑mile run that wound its way around the lake. Runners were paired with local families to underscore the day’s mission: “Health for all, no exceptions.” The marathon also served as a fundraising avenue; participants registered through the Recess Lake Foundation’s website and pledged sponsorships that went directly to the Wilmington Youth Center and the Senior Care Fund.

Giving Back: A Fund‑raising Milestone

According to the Recess Lake Foundation’s Executive Director, Marlene Kim, the event surpassed its fundraising goal by 75%. “We were thrilled to see the community come together in such a tangible way,” Kim said. The proceeds will fund a new playground at the Wilmington Youth Center, expand senior nutrition programs, and provide scholarships for low‑income students pursuing degrees in health sciences.

The foundation’s official page (recesslake.org) details the allocation: 40% to youth infrastructure, 30% to senior care, and the remaining 30% to scholarships and health‑education outreach. “We are proud to partner with these programs that directly benefit families across the region,” Kim added.

Sponsors and Partnerships

The event’s success hinged on generous local sponsorships. First National Bank of Wilmington, Bluewater Grill, and the Wilmington Health Network all donated products and services that helped keep costs low for participants. Bluewater Grill, known for its farm‑to‑table cuisine, provided a complimentary lunch buffet that served 800 attendees, while the Wilmington Health Network offered portable health‑testing kiosks.

The Recess Lake Foundation also collaborated with the Wilmington Parks and Recreation Department. The department’s Director, Carla Ramirez, praised the partnership: “Recess Lake’s commitment to health and wellness aligns perfectly with our city’s vision for a healthier, more active population.”

Community Voices

The event’s impact extended beyond the physical activities. Early in the morning, a group of seniors at the Wilmington Senior Center joined the yoga class, sharing stories of resilience. “It’s wonderful to feel young again, even if just for a moment,” one senior, 72‑year‑old Thomas Jefferson, said. His daughter, who attended the event with him, noted, “Seeing my dad smile after the class is a priceless reward.”

Youth participants also expressed enthusiasm. “I love running, but I’ve never been part of a community run before,” said 12‑year‑old runner, Lila Martinez. Her mother, who helped organize a fundraising booth, added, “It’s not just about the money; it’s about teaching my kids that giving back is a part of being healthy.”

Future Plans and Continued Momentum

While the event concluded on a high note, the Recess Lake Foundation is already looking ahead. The organization plans to repeat the Fitness & Wellness event next year with additional programming, including a “Community Bike‑Share” and a “Healthy Cooking” workshop featuring local chefs.

Kim hinted at a broader initiative: “Our goal is to create a year‑long health calendar for Wilmington, with monthly wellness events that keep our residents engaged and supported.” She also announced a new partnership with the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, aiming to provide students with hands‑on experience in event management, health promotion, and community outreach.

How You Can Get Involved

For those who missed the event, the Recess Lake Foundation’s website offers a range of opportunities to contribute. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, individuals can help sustain the momentum created on September 15. A list of upcoming events, volunteer sign‑ups, and donation portals can be found at recesslake.org.

In the spirit of the day, the foundation encourages community members to keep the conversation going. “Health is a collective effort,” Kim concluded. “When we come together—whether for a run, a yoga session, or a simple donation—we create a ripple effect that benefits everyone.”

For more details on the Recess Lake Fitness & Wellness event, including photos and a full schedule, visit the event page at recesslake.org/events/fitness-wellness-2025.