Planet Fitness® strives to be a Judgement Free Zone®, including in hiring staff. JP Fitness has committed to promoting diversity and inclusion by hiring staff with disabilities. The franchise’s goal is to create a workplace culture where everyone feels included and respected.
“We are excited to share our story and demonstrate how our commitment to inclusion makes Planet Fitness a great place to work,” said Julian Monterosso, owner of nine Planet Fitness clubs in western Michigan. “Our staff with disabilities bring unique perspectives and skillsets to our organization, allowing us to provide an even better experience for our members.”
JP Fitness hired Jacob Feak, a Holland High School student, who has been working at the group’s Planet Fitness location in Holland, Michigan, for the past year as a Member Service Representative. Jacob is Deaf and uses American Sign Language (ASL). Jacob loves working at Planet Fitness because all his coworkers make him feel at home.
“I believe having Jacob on our staff pushed everyone to be better teammates, and I am proud that so many of the staff learned American Sign Language (ASL) in an effort to show Jacob the value he adds to the team. This has been a great experience for everyone and like we say in our clubs, ‘We are a no judgement zone; everyone is made to feel welcomed the moment they walk through our doors,’” said Lexie Wilson, the club manager at the Planet Fitness Holland location.
The franchise group also hired Lee Paige as a customer service representative at the Planet Fitness location in Muskegon, Michigan. Unfortunately, Lee was injured in a car accident a few years ago and requires the assistance of an aide while working. Lee has been working at Planet Fitness for two years, and he appreciates the support of his coworkers and managers.
“Working with Lee, my staff and I have learned a great deal about the challenges people in our community face and are glad to help him not be limited by an impairment,” said Trevel Edge, the club manager at Planet Fitness in Muskegon. “We just needed to match the correct responsibilities to him and let him do his thing.”
