A Purpose‑Driven Partnership: MoveMEANT for All and Parents for Community Living
Courtney Hughes didn’t plan to become an entrepreneur. What she did know was that she wanted to do work that felt purposeful. Before launching MoveMEANT for All, Courtney was working as an Educational Assistant and fitness instructor. Through her career, she became increasingly interested in how movement, activity, and wellness could support people of all abilities in building confidence, connection, and independence.
After the Covid pandemic, that interest became a calling. Like many people, Courtney began re‑evaluating what kind of work she wanted to do. She was drawn toward something more personally meaningful—something that brought people together and supported both physical and emotional well-being. She combined her passion for fitness with her experience working alongside people with developmental disabilities, and MoveMeant for All took shape from there.
Courtney was already acquainted with a few Program Supervisors at Parents for Community Living (PCL), so she reached out to ask for feedback. They immediately recognized the value in what she was creating. At that time, PCL employees were noticing a growing need: following Covid people were yearning for connection and activities, and less programming was being offered in the community.
Courtney was invited to run a handful of programs. It quickly became clear that her approach resonated. Her sessions were upbeat, engaging, and adaptable to a wide range of abilities. Courtney’s strength lies in how she reads a group—adjusting activities, shifting pace, offering encouragement, and always keeping people included. Whether she’s running a group class, providing one‑on‑one coaching, or visiting people in their homes, she builds confidence through small, achievable steps.
One program that grew quickly in popularity was her weekly boxing class with PCL. Designed for all ability levels, the sessions use basic combinations with pads and mitts to build stamina, coordination, and focus. No one needs specialized equipment or boxing experience; the emphasis is on movement, teamwork, and fun. The program attracts participants of all ages, but the Forever Young group in particular has embraced it wholeheartedly.
Courtney also works closely with PCL’s Forever Young Group, a community for adults 45 and older. Their classes are a mix of fitness, creativity, and social engagement, and Courtney often notes how much energy and enthusiasm the group brings into the room. The sessions are active, upbeat, and filled with shared moments that go beyond exercise.
Among the many people who have connected with Courtney’s programs, Anna’s story stands out as a strong example of what slow, steady progress can look like. Anna wanted to become more active but found gym settings intimidating. She needed a structured, individualized approach that matched her pace and comfort level. With Courtney, she began with simple movements—gentle stepping, walking, and light mobility exercises. Over time, she added stepper work, basic weights, resistance bands, and eventually boxing, which she now enjoys.
What makes Anna’s progress meaningful isn’t just the physical improvements—though those have been significant, including greater stamina, stronger muscles, and higher energy. The deeper transformation has been in her confidence. Courtney’s encouragement, combined with Anna’s commitment, has led to a routine that feels empowering rather than overwhelming. Their sessions have become a partnership built on trust, humour, and shared goals.
Throughout her time collaborating with PCL, Courtney’s reputation has grown steadily. She is admired by the people who take part in her programs and appreciated by the employees who work alongside her. She listens closely, adapts quickly, and is genuinely invested in helping people succeed in ways that matter to them.
MoveMeant for All has evolved from an idea into a community resource that brings people together through activity, encouragement, and connection. The partnership with Parents for Community Living continues to grow, and Courtney’s work remains rooted in the values that inspired her from the beginning: making movement accessible, meaningful, and enjoyable for everyone.