About Us
Aging Stronger, Living Longer—Together.
About us
WHAT WE DO
At Fit To The Core, we believe that fitness is essential to living a strong, confident, and independent life—especially as we age.
Our programs are designed to improve strength, balance, mobility, and overall well-being, helping aging adults stay active and engaged in their daily lives.
We serve under-resourced communities by offering inclusive and accessible fitness training—through small-group classes, one-on-one coaching, virtual sessions, and outdoor programs.
Whether it’s fall prevention, strength training, or walking groups, our approach is always functional, fun, and rooted in community care
We also provide starter fitness kits, educational materials, and customized plans to help participants overcome barriers to healthy aging—empowering them to live well at every stage.
Who We Are
Fit To The Core is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to making health and wellness accessible for aging adults in under-resourced communities.
We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to age with strength, dignity, and connection—regardless of background, income, or ability.
Founded in 2019 by veteran fitness professional Tracie VanHook, FTC builds inclusive wellness programs that reflect the needs, culture, and spirit of the communities we serve.
Our Story
Fit To The Core was born out of a deep belief that aging well shouldn’t be a privilege—it should be a right.
In 2019, just before the COVID-19 pandemic, founder Tracie VanHook launched FTC to bring functional fitness to older adults in overlooked neighborhoods. What started with outdoor park workouts and walking groups has grown into a movement of connection, empowerment, and community-centered care.
Today, we offer year-round programming that not only supports aging adults, but also the caregivers, families, and communities who walk beside them.
Our Mission
Fit To The Core (FTC) strengthens the health, independence, and quality of life of aging adults in under-resourced communities through evidence-informed, culturally inclusive, and community-driven fitness and wellness programs that promote aging in place, social connectedness, and health equity.
Our Vision
We envision thriving communities where aging adults live with strength, confidence, and connection—supported by accessible wellness programs that empower them to age in place with dignity and joy.
Core Values
Professionalism
Fit to the Core is a team of professional trainers with extensive fitness knowledge and experience. We are committed to creating results-driven, personalized fitness plans.
Collaboration
We strive to form meaningful partnerships with volunteers, community members and leaders, and other organizations to realize our goals and advance our mission.
Integrity
We seek to be a reliable nonprofit by remaining honest and transparent in our endeavors. We are committed to upholding the highest moral and ethical standards.
Compassion
We care deeply about the holistic well-being of aging adults in under-resourced communities. That's why we serve with empathy, dignity, and courtesy.
Innovation
We seek to excel by embracing continuous improvement. We challenge ourselves to create new solutions for aging people, gathered from the leading research on health, wellness, and active lifestyles
We can accomplish all this through your generous help. With your donations, we can provide starter fitness kits (exercise bands and mats) and professional training to those in our community who lack the resources and access to these programs. We can also provide education and further research into aging, health and longevity in our communities that have been largely ignored. Fit To The Core is dedicated to providing the education, training and research to help all of us age well, regardless of our background.
