Fostering Community Wellness

Week 3 is here, and the Mayor’s Fitness Challenge continues to bring our community together through movement and wellness. This week’s theme, Black History in Motion, highlights the lasting contributions of Black leaders, athletes and cultural trailblazers whose impact continues to inspire healthy and active lifestyles. 

As we approach February, Black History Month, and celebrate the City of Daytona Beach’s 150th anniversary, this week offers an opportunity to honor the past while investing in a healthier future. This week’s schedule features endurance training with First Fire Boxing, encouraging participants to build strength, stamina and resilience while staying active together as a community.

WEEK 3

Black History in Motion

*Participants who dress according to the weekly theme will receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes at the end of the program.

Tuesday, Jan. 20 at 5:30 p.m. 

Endurance Training with First Fire Boxing

Attire: Black History Themed

Cherry Cultural & Educational Center, 925 George W. Engram Blvd.

Thursday, Jan. 22 at 5:30 p.m.

Endurance Training with First Fire Boxing

Attire: Black History Themed

Cherry Cultural & Educational Center, 925 George W. Engram Blvd.

celebrate our history

Black History in Motion

Daytona Beach’s history is shaped by the courage, innovation and resilience of its Black residents, whose contributions have helped define the city over time. From discovering prehistoric archaeological sites to founding schools that became nationally recognized institutions, Blacks have played a central role in shaping the city’s culture, leadership and legacy.

Visionaries such as Mary McLeod Bethune, who founded a school that grew into Bethune-Cookman University, transformed education and leadership opportunities for Black Americans. Local leaders including Charles W. Cherry Sr., Rev. Carl F. Brinkley, Freddye Clay Moore and Dr. Evelyn Stocking Crosslin helped build institutions, advocate for civil rights and mentor generations of community leaders. Entrepreneurs, educators and healthcare pioneers such as Dr. Norwaird Biggins, Keturah Thompson Jackson, Merrell Charles Lloyd and Ollye Eichelberger Collins also exemplify the city’s long tradition of resilience, innovation and community service.

The city honors these influential leaders through initiatives such as banners along International Speedway Blvd. and the18-site Black Heritage Trail. Additional events and displays will take place throughout February as part of Black History Month, highlighting the achievements of past and present Black leaders, from educators and civil rights advocates to business owners and civic pioneers.

Programs such as the Mayor’s Fitness Challenge continue this tradition by connecting the community to history while encouraging residents to stay active, prioritize wellness and embody the perseverance, discipline and determination of Daytona Beach’s Black leaders. Every step and every movement honors the legacy of those who paved the way for progress, empowerment and community pride.

Photo courtesy of Florida Memory, State Library and Archives of Florida.

Look Ahead: Week 4

Celebrate 150 Years, One Decade at a Time

*Participants who dress according to the weekly theme will receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes at the end of the program.

Tuesday, Jan. 27 at 5:30 p.m. 

Warm-up with Oxygen Yoga

Attire: Represent the Decade You Were Born In

Tanger Outlets, 1100 Cornerstone Blvd.

Thursday, Jan. 29 at 5:30 p.m. 

Warm-up with Oxygen Yoga

Attire: Represent the Decade You Were Born In

Tanger Outlets, 1100 Cornerstone Blvd.

We’re inviting participants to share their favorite healthy recipes for a chance to be featured in an upcoming city promotion. Whether it’s a quick breakfast, a family favorite or a nutritious snack, your recipe could help inspire others to eat well.

Submit your recipe with a brief description and photo, if available, to Ingrid Laas, food and beverage assistant, at LaasIngrid@DaytonaBeach.gov. 

Follow the City of Daytona Beach on social media for the latest news, events and highlights from around the city. Weekly video content will be uploaded on the city’s YouTube channel, featuring program coverage and session highlights.

View and download high-quality photos from city events, programs and initiatives on the city’s Flickr page, which will be regularly updated with photography captured throughout the week.

Stay informed and connected by following, watching and sharing city content across our social platforms.