The Kroc Center is Booming

Ray fell into drug addiction, and for three months, he was homeless.

Yes, this is the same Ray Kroc who later founded McDonald’s.  Many know about the fast-food chain’s global presence with about 42,000 restaurants, but Joan Kroc, Ray’s widow, also founded the Kroc Center in Greenville, SC, and 25 other centers across the country.

Not surprisingly, the 74,000-square-foot center crouched in the corner of a once poor 25-acre neighborhood offers membership scholarships to any who cannot afford the fees.  The founder had a soft spot in her heart for the homeless and other disadvantaged.

Although the Kroc Center opened in 2011, much of the furnishings and all the equipment in the weight room have been replaced.

The striking architecture, the high ceiling, and the openness are eye-catching. Glass exterior and interior windows and walls flood light into all corridors, rooms, and chambers.

This space features a multipurpose gym, lap pool, recreation pools, spa, fitness center, spin cafe, performing arts theater, conference centers, event spaces, soccer fields, a game room for all ages, space for yoga routines, daycare, and much more. There is also ample parking.

The staff is friendly, willing to help, well-trained, and able. Free tours and guest passes are available for the asking.