Karen’s Story

Karen comes to ReClif with over 30 years experience in the health and wellness field. She earned her B.S. in Health Education from Florida State University, then her M.Ed. in Health Promotion and Behavior from University of Georgia. Her experience began in Corporate Wellness with The Coca-Cola Company, then Kimberly-Clark Corporation where she continues to contract her services. She and her husband of almost 25 years, Rich have 5 children (Eve, Gavin, Ian, Mary Rose, and Hannah). Gavin, their 2nd child was born with special needs. Karen has taught fitness classes at the Alpharetta YMCA since 1998. When Gavin and his peers got close to teenage-hood, Karen approached the YMCA about starting an adaptive fitness program for teens and young adults with special needs. She continues to run the adaptive fitness program at the Y, with her husband and children all helping with the various classes and events. Karen is a certified Group Fitness Instructor as well as Personal Trainer through ACE (American Council on Exercise). She got certified through YogaFit to become a Yoga Instructor about 17 years ago and enjoys teaching Yoga to individuals and groups of all abilities. She is excited to bring her experience and passion for fitness and special needs to ReClif.

"My whole family is happy to have found ReClif! Becoming physically fit can help ALL people live a healthy, more vibrant life! Rich and I have always enjoyed exercising together, doing triathlons and many road races throughout our 25 years together! When we started having children, we knew
we would involve them in finding their own passion for fitness. They all enjoy taking part in various sports and activities. Our family has been actively involved in the Special Needs community and through these connections heard about the yoga position at ReClif.  Rich and I came for a tour and immediately felt the good things that were coming out of ReClif and their staff.  I am thankful to work at ReClif and to be able to add ReClif
programs to Gavins workout schedule. I'm blessed to be a part of ReClif's team where I have the opportunity to share the gift of Yoga with
the awesome folks here!"