For more than three decades, David Raab’s Children’s Fitness Center has been an integral part of the Culver City community.
Dave and Marilyn Raab’s philosophy brought physical fitness alive for children. Their classes incorporated songs, games and tumbling to promote flexibility, agility, coordination, strength, and endurance in a fun and safe environment.
On Dec. 22, they will teach the last classes at the Culver City Gym.
“Marilyn and I will conclude 37 years of serving our community and experiencing the joy of participating in your child’s life. It has been a pleasure that we will treasure for the rest of our lives,” Raab said.
Raab has worked with all ages in the sports and recreational field, having directed day camps, instructional leagues and even a senior citizen center.
His primary skill and extensive experience is in the early childhood movement and physical education field.
“I have been taking my daughter Charlotte to Dave and Marilyn since she was 9 months old, “ said Jodi Shays, owner of Queen Bee.
“She is 8 now. I know parents in the Culver City neighborhood who went as children, who are now sending their children. Dave is going to be missed by this family and many others.”
“He has been a valuable and much loved member of the Culver City community. Dare I say, a “saltier” version of Mr. Rogers.”
Raab designed, built and operated the first gymnasium exclusively for infants, toddlers and preschool age children. Thousands of happy and confident youngsters have climbed, slid, and swung on the specially constructed equipment.
Raab directed a statewide physical education program for The Foundation Center in Sacramento; during his eight years of service, he trained staff to present his program. Each week 2,400 children of migrant farm workers and disadvantaged, inner city youth participated.
The couple will be retiring to Hawaii.
