First 5 – Week of October 17, 2022

EXTENDED SATURDAY HOURS: Starting November 5, we will extend hours on Saturdays and keep the building open until 4:00 PM (currently 1:00 PM). We know that not having access to the pool on weekends has been a source of disappointment for families, and that Saturday afternoons also tend to be, historically, one of our most popular times for day pass sales. The first few weeks will likely remain very slow in terms of utilization, but it is best to make the change now in order to condition users to the new hours in time for the busier winter season. NOTE: There are currently no plans to resume recreational hours on Sundays.

Expected activities available during the additional 1-4 PM hours will include:

  • Fitness center access
  • Open gym
  • Climbing wall [pending staffing]
  • Modified open swim [ending at 3:45PM]

FALL 2 PROGRAMS: This is the last (full) week to register for Fall 2 Programs. The registration deadline is Tuesday, October 25. Check out the Fall 2 program guide at the Welcome Desk or online here.

DAY PASSES: Day pass sales are officially back! While we aren’t publicly promoting this for the first few weeks, you are welcome to let people know this is an option when asked. Please help make sure that anyone interested in purchasing day passes understands what is available within our schedules (there isn’t open swim every evening, etc.). Day passes are $12 for ages 12+, and $8 for 11 and under. See Jon’s email for a list of FAQ and other details. 

FITNESS BINGO IS BACK: Stop by the Fitness Desk and grab a Fitness Bingo card! This competition is designed to encourage members to take different drop-in group exercise classes and try a wider variety of equipment in hopes of finding new ways to reach their wellness goals. The challenge runs through the end of November, with prize drawings the week of December 5. Employees are also eligible to win prizes, so be sure to check it out! 

MONSTER MASH: Halloween will be here soon and we’re getting excited  for the return of our annual Monster Mash event, scheduled for Friday, October 28 from 5–7 PM. If you have an organization you would like to invite to participate, please contact Jon Shaner for a sponsorship form. Help us spread the word by sharing the event on social media. Check it out here. 

OPEN POSITIONS: Visit the Central Territory’s ADP Recruitment system for all job postings and to submit applications online. We appreciate you sharing opportunities with friends and family! Current openings include: Welcome Desk Lead; Pool Supervisor; Group Exercise Instructor; Fitness Attendant; Personal Trainer; Art Instructor; Swim Instructor; Lifeguard.


Send an email to RJ Kroc if you see someone going above and beyond for our guests! Here are some examples observed recently:

  • Rachel Olexa covered a water aerobics class at the last minute.
  • Lisa VanDyk and other staff members helped to grab more Drum Fit equipment when more participants showed up than had registered.
  • People are starting to note that the climbing wall is open again, and a few kids got to the top last Friday!
  • The aquatics team successfully managed a game of Senior Pants Roulette, and everyone ended up with appropriate clothing 😊
  • Eastern Avenue Christian Reformed Church rented space from us last weekend and Marla, their Director of Church Operations had great things to say about the Kroc. “I just wanted to thank you again for the use of your space this past Saturday – it was the perfect setting for our work for the day, all your staff were so kind and helpful, and in particular, many thanks, Albert, for going above and beyond when helping with some last minute requests and truly making us all feel so welcome. You have a great team and a great place at the Kroc Center and it showed!”

Here are some of the upcoming events and groups at the Kroc Center: 

  • UPrep Enrichment Classes: Tuesday/Thursday, 8:45-10:15am; Outdoor Fields
  • FAME: Tuesday, 12:45-2:45pm; WPAC, Fireside, Art Room
  • Kroc Standards: Wednesday/Thursday, 7:30am-5:00pm; Fireside, Music Room
  • Salvation Army GR Advisory Board: Friday, 11:30am-1:30pm, Fireside C
  • Lobos Soccer: Saturday 12:30-2:15pm; Outdoor Soccer Fields

Be sure to wish a Happy Birthday to our Kroc Krew colleagues: 

  • Michelle Rodriguez, Personal Trainer: 10/17
  • Joselyn Bykerk, Welcome Desk Supervisor : 10/20