‘Everything Is Free’ at New Wellness Center

The Frank Adams Wellness Center celebrated its grand opening on Nov. 11 at The Coop on Highway 82 in Sonoita. Director Daniel Blevins welcomed the group of well-wishers, volunteers and curious community members to the Center, inviting everyone inside to “learn, eat and be social.” 

Sandwiches, fruit kabobs, veggies, cookies, coffee and cold beverages were arranged on a table and people were invited to sit for a short talk by Blevins about the Center’s mission of improving the well-being of people in the greater Sonoita area. He detailed the program offerings, emphasizing the physical, mental and social benefits available to all. 

The Wellness Center is the second phase of Restoring Hope Alliance, the nonprofit organization running the Food Pantry next to the Corner Scoop in Sonoita. Just a little over three months ago, on September 5, the idea of expanding community programs that began with the Food Pantry was enthusiastically endorsed by a cadre of volunteers.

“The community saw the need for a wellness center and started volunteering to make the idea a reality,” Blevins said at the opening. 

Plans for the Center include weekly wellness programs to improve physical and mental well-being in the community. Six full-time volunteers and 20 part-time volunteers will work toward the goal. Certified personal trainers, yoga instructors and nutritionists, a Free Store, weekly wellness programs, mobile food delivery, and community events are all part of the program. Space for the center was found at The Coop.

“I didn’t expect such a strong community response, but it’s amazing to see,” Blevins said. “There has been such an outpouring of support from the community. Everybody needs some level of service, and we’re here to help, no charge. The Wellness Center is a place where everyone can come to access the resources we offer.” 

The main room at the Wellness Center houses the fitness, yoga, nutrition, and educational programs. A calendar showing days and times of these programs is available on the website, and a printed calendar is available at the Wellness Center. Also on the premises is a ‘Free Store,’ which offers coats, personal hygiene items and other essential items. A smaller room in the back of the facility is available for private consultations. 

“We want to use this space in every way possible to meet the needs of the community,” said Blevins. “There are no barriers. Everything is free.”

Blevins, his wife Erin and their children had been touring the country from their home in Pittsburgh in when they fell in love with Arizona. “We are moving here,” said Blevins, and the family agreed. 

Erin Blevins said the family “would love to extend that feeling of community” they experienced upon their move. 

“We’re here to take care of each other,” Erin said. “Everybody needs to socialize, especially the kids, and we want to organize events to encourage socializing. Especially in a rural area like ours where people don’t live close to each other, social events are needed. The kids need to be active and social.” 

Daniel Blevins has been working in behavioral health for nine years and is certified in Health and Wellness. 

Callie Mattus, a second grade teacher at the Elgin School who is certified in Fitness and Wellness, is the center’s Director of Wellness. 

Many other volunteers are donating time and money to make the center a success. 

“Volunteers are always welcome and needed,” said Blevins.“The easiest way to sign up is to use the website.” 

The Wellness Center is named for Frank Adams, an Arizona native who served many tours as a soldier in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was a friend and mentor to many, including Blevins. Members of the Adams family traveled from Phoenix, Marana, and Tucson to be at the opening. Blevins paid a special tribute to his friend and thanked his family for coming for this special day.

More information can be found at restorehopealliance.org