Indianapolis, Indiana – Indianapolis Public Schools marked a major milestone in student wellness on Wednesday, September 24, with the unveiling of a newly renovated weight room at Northwest Middle School. The project, realized through a collaborative effort between Elevance Health and the Impact Fitness Foundation (IFF), transforms the school’s outdated exercise space into a modern, functional, and inspiring facility designed specifically for middle school students.
This initiative reflects Elevance Health’s ongoing commitment to promoting community health beyond traditional healthcare settings. The renovation is the fourth fitness space upgrade sponsored by the organization in Indianapolis schools, highlighting a growing focus on supporting students’ physical well-being in environments where they live and learn. The effort is also tied to the annual Elevance Health Women’s Fort Myers Tipoff, a collegiate basketball tournament held each November that celebrates women’s achievements in sports.
For years, Northwest Middle School’s weight room had been limited by outdated high school-level equipment, making it difficult for students to train safely and effectively. The renovation addressed these challenges with entirely new flooring, functional training equipment, and a carefully organized storage system. About 30 volunteers from Elevance Health contributed to the redesign, helping to ensure the space is not only functional but also age-appropriate and welcoming.
“We are incredibly grateful to Elevance Health and the Impact Fitness Foundation for bringing this vision to life,” said Nichole Morrow-Weaver, Principal of Northwest Middle School. “For many of our students, this will be their very first experience in a proper fitness space. We know this will help our kids develop healthier habits, improve athletic performance, and build confidence both on and off the court.”
The partnership goes beyond providing equipment. By integrating this initiative with the Women’s Fort Myers Tipoff, Elevance Health emphasizes the importance of role models and the positive impact of sports for young women and students of all genders. The program aims to extend lessons learned on the court directly into students’ daily routines, encouraging healthier lifestyles and greater participation in physical activity.
“As an organization, we know that health isn’t just about care delivered in a doctor’s office—it’s about the resources available where people live, learn, and play,” said Anita Allemand, Elevance Health Chief Growth Officer. “By connecting the Women’s Fort Myers Tipoff with investments like this, we’re ensuring that more students have access to safe, inspiring fitness spaces that support both physical and mental well-being.”
Chris Welsh, Founder and President of the Impact Fitness Foundation, emphasized the timing and importance of the program. Middle school represents a critical period for fostering long-term interest in sports and fitness, he said, noting that early engagement can influence physical health, teamwork, and personal confidence well into high school and beyond.
Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony and speeches, students and staff were invited to participate in an orientation clinic led by IFF trainers. The clinic provided guidance on safe exercise practices and how to make the most of the new equipment, ensuring that the space is not only impressive visually but also maximized for educational and athletic use.
The Northwest Middle School weight room upgrade represents more than a physical transformation; it is a community investment in student health, well-being, and opportunity. By providing a safe and modern space for fitness, IPS, Elevance Health, and the Impact Fitness Foundation are helping students develop healthy habits that extend far beyond the gym, setting a foundation for lifelong physical activity and personal growth.
With this renovation, the collaboration sends a clear message: investing in youth health and fitness is essential for both individual development and the broader community. As Northwest Middle School students begin using the new facility, they will carry forward lessons in discipline, resilience, and confidence—skills that extend far beyond the weight room and into the classroom, sports arenas, and their everyday lives.
