For Donna Katz, Genesis Gymnastics is her passion project.
The former competitive gymnast says teaching others brings her joy.
"It gives me so much joy and happiness to see all the kids that walk through the day with a smile and seeing them happy to be here for the lesson," said Katz, whose business celebrated its 10th anniversary in November.
"I go above and beyond with the service I provide. I am not just providing the space for students. I am providing a space that kids what to come back to," she explained. "Genesis is like a small family."
Genesis, which boasts top-flight equipment at its 6,500-square-foot facility, offers private classes for dancers looking to build on specific skills in addition to birthday parties, summer camps, March break camps, and even holiday camps.
She said Bradford is the ideal place for her facility.
"Right from the start I have been welcomed to this community with open arms," she said. "I live and work here, and I am so passionate about this community," said Katz.
Her very first year in business, Katz won the Best New Business Award which started her involvement with the local Bradford Board of Trade "because they're out there supporting small businesses and I just love how I felt and what I accomplished," said Katz.
Since that inaugural year, Katz has seen an annual increase in students joining the gym. She noted programs at the gym run quarterly; spring, summer, fall, and winter, with 400 to 500 students enrolling each season.
Katz says she has received a lot of "great feedback" from the community and has been part of the community since Day 1.
If there is a public event in Bradford, you’ll likely see the Genesis Gymnastics signage with Katz happily standing in front of it.
“I can’t go anywhere in town without someone recognizing me as Miss Donna,” she joked.
"Every time I am out there, the community is always so happy I brought gymnastics out into the community. It is a true blessing for me," said Katz.
Prices of the programs Katz offers vary on the type of program the student/child is looking for, she says.
For more information on pricing and to sign up for gymnastics you can follow the club on Instagram/Facebook @genesisgymnastics. To book a session, email [email protected] or call 905-775-4961.
Genesis Gymnastics is located at 401 Dissette St.
--With files from Mark Pagliaroli
