CMH Senior Fitness Center receives grant for new dehumidifier

Community
• 12 August 2025

The CMH Senior Fitness Center has installed a new dehumidifier in its pool room, thanks in part to a $20,000 grant from the Polk County Senior Citizens Services Fund. The total cost of the equipment was $37,000.

The center features a small fitness pool and hot tub designed to help seniors exercise with less joint pain or discomfort than traditional workouts.

“Water walking is the most common water exercise for our members,” said Jody Pool, CMH Senior Fitness Center coordinator. “The resistance really works on muscles and cardio, but it’s buoyant so it doesn’t hurt the joints.”

The new dehumidifier system reduces humidity in the pool room, helping mechanical equipment and metal fixtures last longer. It protects items such as windows, door handles and hinges from moisture-related damage.

“We’re grateful for the funding to replace this equipment,” Pool said. "The dehumidifier makes the pool much more comfortable. In the summer, it’s like a sauna without it.”

The CMH Senior Fitness Center offers free workouts for individuals age 55 and older. The facility serves residents of Polk, Greene, Dallas, Dade, Hickory, Cedar and St. Clair counties. Services include exercise equipment and group fitness classes.

“Seniors come here for exercise, but they also really enjoy the social aspect,” Pool said. “Many great friendships have formed at our center during the 21 years we’ve been open.”

For more information or to sign up for a free membership, call 417-777-7171 or visit the CMH Senior Fitness Center online.

The CMH Senior Fitness Center is owned and operated by Citizens Memorial Health Care Foundation in Bolivar.