Heart for Inclusion: Ruth Polillo Launches Special Strong Lancaster County
Millersville, PA – August 1, 2025 – Special Strong proudly announces the launch of its newest franchise in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, led by franchise owner Ruth Polillo. A licensed physical therapist with nearly 20 years of professional experience, Ruth is also a devoted mother of four, including two children with special needs. Her unique blend of expertise and personal experience fuels her passion to empower individuals of all abilities through adaptive fitness.
For Ruth, Special Strong represents the perfect union of her professional calling and her heart for inclusion. After years of working in rehabilitation, she felt inspired to create new opportunities for individuals with disabilities to feel strong, confident, and included.
“Special Strong gives me the chance to bring together my career as a physical therapist and my personal journey as a mom,” said Ruth. “I want to create a space where progress, connection, and joy are celebrated just as much as physical strength.”
Special Strong founder and CEO Daniel Stein welcomed Ruth to the growing franchise family. “Ruth brings a remarkable combination of clinical expertise, compassion, and lived experience to our mission,” Stein shared. “Her heart for empowering individuals and families will have a lasting impact across Lancaster County.”
Ruth’s vision for Special Strong Lancaster County is to build a welcoming community where every client is treated with dignity and respect, and where individuals and families alike can thrive. She hopes to make adaptive fitness a cornerstone of strength, confidence, and inclusion in her community.
About Special Strong
Founded in 2016, Special Strong provides adaptive fitness training for children, adolescents, and adults with mental, physical, and cognitive challenges. Through its rapidly growing franchise model, Special Strong empowers communities to offer inclusive fitness programs that improve health, build confidence, and promote independence. With a foundation built on faith and service, Special Strong continues to expand nationwide, making a lasting impact one life at a time.
