Elder Fitness Advocates is made up of a group of class members who have been attending a senior focused exercise program known as “Strength Training”. This cost-free program has served well over 500 local older adult community members since its start in 2003. This program started along with similar programs in other cities within the County. Today it is the only surviving program. This is due to the dedicated leadership of the Physical Therapist Assistant instructor.
Elder Fitness Advocates has seen and experienced the positive impact “Strength Training” is having on the older adult community and is working toward sustaining this program and encouraging additional older adult based activities, programs and projects to be led by dedicated professionals. The need for older adult movement (exercise) is evidenced by the ever increasing size of the “Strength Training” program. What started as an average attendance of 40 people per class in 2022, has grown to a consistent average of 95 people per class in 2026.
click above for program statistics 2022 through 2026
OUR MISSION: To enrich the lives of adults 50+ by providing funding to professional, community-based activities that support the mind and body. Said activities to be led by qualified professionals who truly understand aging. These programs are to be targeted to empower older adults to maintain their independence, build lasting connections, and thrive.
OUR VISION: Empowered older adults who thrive by helping themselves to maintain and/or improve their physical, mental and social well-being outside the home.
Leslie Robinson-Stone, President
After a dynamic career in Law Enforcement, Information Technology, and running her own Web and Graphic Design business, Leslie retired from the County of Santa Barbara in 2012. Two years later, she discovered the Strength Training program—a community that became vital to her health. When she underwent a total knee replacement in 2016, Leslie paired her strength training with physical therapy to make a full, remarkable recovery. Today, she gives back to the program that helped her by serving as its Volunteer Program Director, a role she has passionately held since January 2020.
“Attending this class and being able to see the impact, the mental and physical benefits it provides to all who attend, truly makes me happy. Watching it grow over the past four years proves that it serves a need in our community. My goal is to assist in sustaining this class and building upon it with more offerings for the senior population in our community.”
Our Board
Patricia Munoz, Secretary
Patricia’s previous career spanned customer service-oriented positions in banking, retail sales, community development, real estate, and ending with a job in civic work. She has always enjoyed going to group exercise programs throughout her adulthood. Walking in the neighborhood with a friend or a dog sufficed when not attending formal organized exercise. As of the last 3 years, coming to Strength Training at the Dick DeWees Center has brought her full circle. The instructor, Terri Robinson, knows how aging affects dexterity, balance and health. Terri provides us with varied exercises that fit different capabilities. No one is expected to perform out of their comfort zone, while still enjoying the movements at their own pace. It has helped Patricia feel better physically and she enjoys spending time with other seniors who share a common goal. “We have a good time, and everyone leaves our class with a smile and a wave.”
Margaret Osuna,
Retired Banker,
Board Member
“As a 72-year-old retired banker and an active grandmother to two wonderful grandchildren, keeping up with my family is my top priority. I knew I needed an exercise program truly tailored to seniors, and that is exactly what I found with Strength Training.
The program provides a highly qualified personal trainer who gives clear, detailed instructions and constantly monitors our form to keep us safe. I deeply appreciate how they offer personalized modifications for every exercise, ensuring everyone can participate at their own comfort level. Since joining, I have seen a noticeable improvement in my balance, mobility, flexibility and overall body strength. Strength Training has given me the physical confidence I need to enjoy my retirement and stay active with my grandkids!”
Rhonda Sanford, Board Member
“With over 20 years of office management and customer service experience, I enjoy helping others.
After a major surgery in October 2009 I found the Senior Strength and Balance (now Strength Training) exercise classes and have been attending twice a week ever since. The class gave me the confidence to become a long distance walker, completing the “Avon 39, Walk to End Breast Cancer” three times. Then joining the “California Mission Walkers” for an even bigger challenge of walking to all 21 California Missions.
Volunteering is one of the ways I spend my time and Elder Fitness Advocates is here to support getting seniors moving!”
