Pearce would like to recognize Jamie Heath as our January Member of the Month!
Jamie is currently a Physical Education Teacher in Peoria. She and her family have been members at Pearce for 11 years.
Jamie joined Pearce Community Center after learning of others in the community who were members here. She enjoys participating regularly in group exercise classes with her friends. Her family also enjoys participating in programs at Pearce; Kids Club, Before/After School Care, Summer Camp, and Youth Sport Leagues. Jamie also enjoys participating in our Annual Run for the Health of It 5K. For many years, she has been seen running across the finish line, pushing a kiddo in a stroller.
When asked what she most enjoys about Pearce, she said “I enjoy the small community of people that make you feel like family while working out in the group exercise classes together. The staff that work with my kiddos are the best!”
Having a Pearce membership offers numerous benefits that positively impact my role as a physical education teacher, as well as my overall health and well-being. Firstly, maintaining my physical health and fitness through regular exercise enables me to model healthy behavior for my students; it encourages them to adopt similar habits, reinforcing the importance of fitness in their lives. Regular exercise also helps me improve my strength, endurance, and flexibility which are essential for demonstrating movements, engaging in physical activities, and maintaining energy throughout the school day. Lastly, regular exercise is an effective stress reliever, boosting my mood and reducing anxiety, leading to better focus and a more positive attitude both in and out of the classroom.
Jamie’s favorite inspirational thought is, “Faith is not just about believing in what you cannot see but trusting that God is working in ways you may not yet understand. If every challenge, find the strength to believe that He has a purpose for you, and through every struggle, know that His grace is guiding you to something greater. Keep your heart open, and trust that His plan for you is far more beautiful than anything you could have imagined.”
In her free time, Jamie enjoys spending time with her family, most recently as a spectator at her children’s sporting events and activities. She enjoys running with her family and dogs. When vacationing with her family, most of their time is spent swimming and hiking.
Jamie’s advice for fellow Pearce members: Try some of Bob’s classes. He is a great guy and makes working out fun while devoting his extra time to sharing ways to stay healthy.
Thank you, Jamie, for choosing to be a Pearce member!

