The Power of Community

On the evening of July 3, 2026, while Spring Lake was celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, a powerful storm moved through town. In an instant, a utility pole snapped beside Mojo Fusion Pilates and Wellness studio, sending live wires into the Pilates studio. The resulting fire destroyed the space owned by Joanne Monti. Remarkably, once news spread about the studio, Joanne began receiving hundreds of texts, emails, and messages. There were prayers, encouragement, concern, and most importantly, a clear message that Mojo wasn’t just a building, but a community. “I was overwhelmed,” Joanne says.

When did you first realize just how much the community was behind you?   

Since the fire, there has been an abundance of support from so many local businesses. My clients, some of whom are realtors, have worked tirelessly in the search for a space for relocation. Many have sent suggestions and photos of places that appeared to be “for rent.” And I would be remiss if I did not highlight the kindness immediately extended to Mojo by the owners of the Spring Lake School of Dance. Pat and Jeff Osborn have allowed us to rent out their beautiful studios for daily mat Pilates classes since the very first week following the fire. It enabled the Mojo staff and our clients the opportunity to stay active and moving while simultaneously working to rebuild. Their support provided an incredible sense of calm within the chaos. It gave me the opportunity to pause, reflect, and redirect my energy into the rebuild. 

How have your clients responded to everything that has happened? 

The outpouring of kindness and generosity pushed me to work even harder on our relocation. Time would have been wasted had I spent it wallowing in self-pity. There’s no understanding or answer to the “Why?” at least not yet! 

Has this experience changed the way you think about Mojo Fitness? 

I knew early on that Mojo was more than just a Pilates studio. It became a “happy place” not only for myself and my instructors, but more so for our clients. We created a community that grew friendships and fun! We smiled and laughed working to get stronger, steadier, and more sound, both in body and in mind. And there were celebrations…birthdays, brides, babies…it was just so rewarding! 

There must be moments when starting over feels overwhelming. What keeps you resilient? 

This experience has redefined what I once thought was strong. It means so many different things depending upon the circumstances. Personally, it’s no longer about physical strength. It’s more about self-reflection. Finding the purpose and direction that first inspired me and then running with it. The support from family, friends, and the community has been the wind that’s pushed me forward. My hope is to reopen the doors at a new studio with the same atmosphere of warmth and welcoming to all. Many of our clients were new, not only to Pilates, but also to the Reformer. The apparatus can definitely be intimidating, so we’ll continue to work on creating a space that supports everyone!   

What are you dreaming about for Mojo’s next chapter? 

I can’t wait for that day to arrive! Hoping by late Fall, we’ll be smiling in Sea Girt!