ONE PRICE. ONE PLACE. ALL ACCESS.

Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation’s ads say their memberships are: One Price. One Place. All Access. Longtime Monon Community Center (MCC) member Marc Zolner says that is exactly why he has been working out at the MCC for over 12 years. It’s his true home for everything that keeps him healthy, happy and on-the-move. A true mind, body and spirit community no matter your individual workout goals.

“I chose the MCC for my workouts because it was close to both my home and work, affordable, and the facilities were better and offered more options than anywhere else close by,” says Zolner. “I could run on the track or outside on a trail, lift weights, swim, take a group fitness class, find comradery in my workout sessions, and then have a place to shower and head back to work. I really can do it all right at the MCC.”

For Zolner, his commitment to a health-conscious workout routine started when he was in college in Colorado. Even as a college student, he was at the recreation center working out every day alongside his twin brother. Admittedly, both brothers have a competitive edge and used to run marathons and road races together—especially during their college years.

“We are identical twins, and my brother was a competitive cyclist for years,” Zolner says. “He was always a better runner than I was, but we enjoyed racing and training together. Sometimes, we would wear the same things just to confuse folks (and the girls). That part was fun. We didn’t necessarily grow up in a household with a workout or health-focused routine but we both were drawn to all things running, cycling and strength-based and that became a way of life for both of us. It still is today.”

Adding Energy To Community

In 2008 Zolner did his first Ironman and a second followed in 2010. He had been running marathons since he was 18 and then just took the step up to train for the Ironman, which includes a full marathon run, 2.4-mile swim and a 112-mile bike ride. Training for both the Ironman and triathlons, Zolner says, are a thing of the past but he’s still intent on a daily workout routine.

“As often as I can—every day if I could—I try to get in some morning cardio either biking or running and then attend a strength workout group class during my lunch break,” says Zolner. “The competitive spirit—no matter what level—is alive and thriving during those noon classes.”

Zolner may have given up his racing days, but he is well-known around the MCC for the number of pullups he can accomplish, and his farmer carries on the track. He’s often described as a motivator and support system for others.

“Marc adds such amazing energy to our community,” says CCPR fitness & wellness supervisor Shannon Strzynski. “Not only is he incredibly fit and dedicated to his own routine, but he encourages those around him to be their best self. He can often be seen organizing workout meet-ups in the fitness center or engaging fellow group fitness members in a friendly competition. He will remind us that his wife is really the athlete in the family, but Marc brings a healthy dose of athleticism, enthusiasm, fun and the best smile to the MCC.”

Everything “state of the art” that you would need for any kind of workout is available at the MCC, shares Zolner. The atmosphere, he continues, is like family with a lot of encouragement and support of one another—and adaptable to whatever level of intensity works for the individual. As Zolner ages, he admits that he’s aware of aching knees and the ability to not exercise as hard as he once did. Finding alternatives to his workout to adapt to his body is something that is important to Zolner and a must as his fitness routines flex and change.

“That is what makes the MCC so special,” Zolner says. “You can find what workout best fits your individual lifestyle and daily workout goals and needs. Everyone is encouraged to move at their own pace, modify their workout and if you want to be competitive with the person next to you–well that is okay too.”

Making A Difference Every Day After School

Molly McGeehan radiates positivity. In a conversation with her, you can’t help but soak it in and smile. When asked to describe herself she chose the words outgoing, bright and positive— she’s spot on. These are all qualities that make her an outstanding member of the Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) team.

McGeehan joined CCPR as an Extended School Enrichment (ESE) after-school counselor in 2009. The ESE program offers on-site, after-school care for grades K-6 at all 11 Carmel Clay elementary schools. As a counselor, she assists with program activities like homework time, enrichment clubs and recess.

“I honestly love kids in general and I think that working with kids is so rewarding,” shares McGeehan. “It’s important for kids to learn about disability awareness, especially from someone with a disability herself. I just love it when kids ask questions because, you know, they’re curious! And I’m more than happy to share my story with them.”

A Passion For Sharing Her Story

When McGeehan was born, a bleed in her brain caused her to have a stroke. Over the course of the next two years, her parents noticed she wasn’t meeting typical milestones like walking or crawling. At 29 weeks she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. According to the Mayo Clinic, cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture. McGeehan has used a wheelchair since she was 3 years old.

McGeehan has a passion for working with kids and educating them about disability awareness. Even as early as her elementary school days, she participated in a program called Everybody Counts. Through that program she visited elementary classrooms to share her story about living with cerebral palsy.

“It’s so important for people to know it’s okay to ask questions,” she shares. “When I’m at work, my disability disappears. The kids are my world, my main focus, and I forget about my disability. I’m so focused on their needs that I forget about myself.”

Making An Impact At Ese

When McGeehan interviewed to be an ESE afterschool counselor, her now-manager Valeska Simmonds hired her on the spot. McGeehan laughs as she recalls the interview, “Valeska said ‘We want you at Forest Dale (Elementary) and you’re never allowed to leave.’”

McGeehan has worked with Simmonds on the after-school team at Forest Dale Elementary for 14 years now. Their relationship has had a positive impact on them both.

“I enjoy Valeska so much,” McGeehan shares. “She’s so good with the kids, and I’ve learned so much from her. She’s always been at the finish line for me.

“I appreciate all the hard work that Valeska has done to make me successful,” says McGeehan. “She’s been behind me 100 percent since day one. She has given me a chance and I feel very accomplished working at ESE. I feel like I’m a huge part of CCPR.”

McGeehan’s impact on the students and families at Forest Dale Elementary as well as the CCPR team over the years is beyond words. Simmonds shared that McGeehan makes a positive impact on anyone she comes across.

“She is very kind and understanding with the children, and they in turn enjoy being around her,” says Simmonds. “I would say she is a perfect role model for the kids in our program. She is a positive example to the children that nothing can stop you from realizing your dreams and working up to your full potential.”

Join Molly On The Ccpr Team

At Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation, we believe our differences are what make us better. CCPR is lucky to have McGeehan’s bright, positive spirit on our team. CCPR is always looking for individuals who are passionate about making a positive difference. If you’re interested in joining the CCPR team, visit carmelclayparks.com/work/