Finding Community and Strength
For Villard Bastien, fitness has always been a priority. A lifelong runner, Villard enjoyed the mental clarity and physical endurance that came with hitting the pavement. But over time, his body began to signal it was time for a change. “My knees started to bother me, and my doctor suggested cutting back on running,” he recalls. “But I still needed something that would keep me active and strong.”
That’s when Villard discovered fitness classes at the Marcus JCC of Atlanta. What began as a small way to supplement his running quickly evolved into a transformative and deeply meaningful experience.
“I found a spin class that worked with my schedule—it was way tougher than I expected,” he laughs. “But it made me realize I needed a different kind of strength. That first class opened the door, and before I knew it, I was coming back regularly.”
Led by instructor Jennifer Powers, the class blended high-intensity cardio with total-body conditioning. But more than that, it offered something Villard didn’t anticipate: a warm, encouraging, and tight-knit community. “Jennifer isn’t just an instructor, she’s tuned in. She knows each of us, pushes us to do our best, and makes sure we’re safe. It’s like having a personal trainer who also feels like a friend.”
The camaraderie in class became just as important as the workout itself. “We’ve formed real friendships,” Villard shares. “We’ve celebrated holidays together, shared meals, and supported each other through life’s ups and downs. There’s a group chat that’s always buzzing with encouragement, updates, and laughs. If you miss a class, someone checks in. You feel cared for.”
The impact of the Marcus JCC for Villard has extended far beyond fitness. For more than 15 years, the MJCCA has been central to his family’s life. His daughter learned to swim at the Marcus JCC as a toddler, celebrated countless birthdays by the pool, and attended MJCCA Day Camps year after year. Eventually, she became a camp counselor herself. “The MJCCA has been a constant in her life too. She’s 16 now and still involved. It’s a place where she feels confident, supported, and safe.”
Though not Jewish himself, Villard has found that the Marcus JCC has deepened his understanding and appreciation for Jewish culture and traditions. “I’ve celebrated Passover with friends from class, and it opened my eyes. I realized how many values we share. We may come from different backgrounds, but at our core we’re so alike.”
That inclusivity is one of the things Villard wishes more people knew about the Marcus JCC. “People assume it’s only for the Jewish community, but it’s for everyone. I’ve never once felt like an outsider. I’ve always been welcomed with open arms.”
His message to anyone considering joining? “Just do it. Whether it’s fitness, family programs, or cultural events, the MJCCA offers something that nourishes every part of your life. You’ll come for a class, but you’ll stay for the people, the purpose, and the sense of belonging.”