Frequently Asked Questions

How much is membership?
Individual and family memberships are available. There is a bigger discount if you purchase an annual membership and pay the full amount when signing the contract. (See Memberships and Fees for details). We now accept Visa and Mastercard payments

What if I can't afford to pay the full fee at once?
You have the option of paying a daily fee or a monthly rate. There is no limit on how many daily passes that you can buy. The annual rate is the most economical.

What if I just can't afford to pay anything?
Scholarships will be available on a case-by-case basis that will be reviewed by a panel of community members.

How many times can I use the daily pass?
The daily pass can only be used once. You must buy another daily pass in order to re-enter the building.

Why do I need a membership or a pass to enter the building?
The Charles R. Drew Wellness Center is open to the public through memberships as established by the Columbia City Council as it does for other parks and recreation programs. The fee structure for the Wellness Center is based upon the fees for similar fitness programs and services offered in the area.

Why are the fees so high?
The membership fees are among the lowest for the services that will be available. A cost comparison was done of gyms and fitness centers across the state. We also looked at the rates charged by other municipalities for similar programs and services.

City Council established the rates based upon recommendation from Parks and Recreation staff with it in mind that the rates should be affordable and we believe that we have accomplished that.

What's the purpose of the Wellness Center?
The intent of the Charles R. Drew Wellness Center is to assist City of Columbia residents, their families and its neighbors in better understanding and managing their health by creating an environment that supports positive health practices and offers opportunities for individuals to learn the skills needed to optimize their health both now and into the future.

Where can I pick up a membership application?
Membership applications can be downloaded or are available at 2101 Walker Solomon Way (near the intersection of Calhoun and Harden Streets). You can also call us at 545-3200.

Do you accept checks and credit cards?
Yes, we accept checks, VISA, MasterCard, American Express and Discover.

What programs are available for seniors?
Through a partnership with Palmetto Health and the Capitol Senior Center, the Wellness Center will offer aerobics, water aerobics and healthy eating classes.

Who is the Wellness Center for? Those who live in that neighborhood?
The Charles R. Drew Wellness Center is open to all people. Our priority is to city residents. However, we are encouraging non-city residents who work in the city to join the Wellness Center.

The Wellness Center is open to the public regardless of a person's ability to pay. We have established a scholarship program for individuals and families who express a need for assistance with membership fees. For more information call 545-3200.

The Wellness Center is conveniently located in the heart of the city. The location provides an excellent opportunity for an early morning workout before heading to the office. An evening workout could mean you miss traffic and head home relaxed.

What comes with a membership?
Some of the membership benefits include use of pool, fitness area and gym when scheduled, health screenings, progress monitoring, and discounts for classes, group fitness programs, and facility rentals.