"We have what we call wrap-around services," said Anita Hinson, program director at the 130,000-square foot facility on 12.4 acres of the former Budd Co. site, "which means there is something for every family member who attends Kroc, from worship . . . to fitness."
The center, filled with sunlight from its many large windows and skylights, includes an aquatic center with an indoor water park for children, a 10-lane competition pool, and several recreational pools.
There is a large gym for basketball and other sports, a fitness center with top-flight equipment, and a specialized staff of instructors. There is also an auditorium for worship and performing arts.
Wilson, 37, of Mount Airy, said he heard about the center through word of mouth before it opened.
"Once we got here, we were pleasantly surprised by the physical plant. The recreational pool, the competitive pool and the gym. All those things," Wilson said.
He said he comes to the center with his wife and his daughter, Mekhi, five nights a week for about three hours.
"It's really outfitted for anything you need to address," Wilson said.
"While my daughter is swimming, I get in a workout. Whatever I need to get accomplished while my daughter is swimming, I get done," Wilson said, adding that he also uses the facility's computer center.
Dirk Parker, 40, of Cheltenham, said he comes to the center with his wife, Carlena; son, Trey, 15; and daughter, Nia, 12, from four to six days a week.
"Not only is it a good pool for my daughter's swimming, I can actually go and work out," Parker said. "This is a great place for my whole family. . . . My wife does Zumba. There is so much more than swimming. This is state-of-the-art."
