Fusion brings community together

MONROEVILLE — No matter the age or ability, people can improve their movement and mindset at a place providing programs honing in on holistic health. It's the mission of Stacy Corbin, the founder and executive director of Fusion Impact Center in Monroeville, which debuted in November. People can find the charcoal-painted building, formerly Leis Furniture, at 20 S. Main St. beside Pean's Pizza Subs & Sudz. "At the heart of it, we are connecting people through our programs," said Stacy, who lives in Norwalk with her husband Charlie, a Monroeville firefighter, and their three children: Kaitlyn, Kallie and Blake. "We are the only structured programming place for youth and adults focusing on fitness, mindset, growth and community service in Monroeville," Stacy said. Expressing her appreciation for Monroeville as a town, Stacy said she opened her nonprofit in this downtown as a tribute to her grandmother, Mary Snyder, who also operated a small business on a similar Main Street in Butler, Ohio, between Mansfield and Columbus. "My grandma had a relationship with everyone where she wanted everyone to come together and celebrate each other. It was fitting," Stacy said. "And that's what we want to do here at Fusion: We are not taking away from what's already being offered here in the community. We are just adding to what's available in a new way." Stepping foot in Fusion Right now, Fusion offers many different exercise disciplines, ranging from group fitness sessions to personal strength training and yoga classes, among others. Stacy assembled a team — a trained accountant herself, she entrusted certified individuals with specific specialties — to oversee all classes. This would include a personal trainer, a yoga instructor and a nutritionist. These trained professionals teach participants skills to improve their reaction times, hand-foot coordination, balance, flexibility and more. "It's a high-energy, fun place where you will be excited to come through the door, connect with people, develop relationships and become a healthier person," Stacy said. Stacy underscored how those of varying skill levels can take part in any class offered at Fusion. They're geared toward all abilities, especially for children not experienced enough to play for a sanctioned school sports team. "We are also there for kids who maybe didn't make a team or are too anxious to play," Stacy said. "We are an outlet to help them and others develop skills and their athletic abilities so they are better, more-rounded individuals." Working with the trained professionals, Stacy made sure to tailor each class so participants can gain more self-confidence, curb negative behaviors and learn how to embrace positivity. "This is like therapy but in a place where it doesn't really feel like an office," Corbin said. "We're providing an outlet for people to work their minds, bodies and spirits so they feel better overall." Count Miranda Zurcher, a volunteer with Fusion, as one of the biggest fans of Stacy. "I met Stacy through a cardio drumming class and loved that her whole family worked out together," Zurcher said. "She made fitness a part of their daily lives," Zurcher added. "She brought that family fitness to Fusion along with the idea that everyone should be included — and not just physical fitness but emotional and spiritual fitness. It's just a very positive place where everyone is welcomed and included." The importance of inclusivity Opening Fusion also serves as a tribute to the Corbins' oldest child, their 14-year-old daughter, Kaitlyn, who has been diagnosed with severe developmental disabilities. Before opening Fusion, either Stacy or Charlie would often stay at home with Kaitlyn so the other could exercise. And the times she would tag along with them to gyms, Kaitlyn would just sit in the lobby area and watch videos on her phone and listen to music. But that's not the case at Fusion. "She gets involved in pretty much everything we have here, and we encourage other children with special needs to come here," Stacy said, calling Kaitlyn a "huge reason" for creating Fusion. "Other places, she'd be missing out, but not here where she's an active participant," Stacy added. "Fusion was created to develop a place where families, like ours, could do things together to benefit our health together instead of being separated or not doing it at all." Stacy welcomes anyone and everyone to come visit Fusion. "We are inclusive and special needs-friendly but not exclusive to special needs. We are open to everyone," Stacy said. Right now, all classes are free, but donations are welcome. People can view the full schedule by visiting Facebook and searching for "Fusion Impact Center." "It's just a really fun, energetic and engaging place," Stacy said. "It's all about moving around and having fun and, really, not realizing you're doing good things that benefit your health. We are always trying to make it fun, positive and uplifting while creating that safe and fun space for everyone."