2026 Beneficiary
2026 Beat the Funk Beneficiary
The Glen and Polly Barton Clinic for Fitness and Function at Bradley University is dedicated to improving the health, mobility, and quality of life of individuals throughout our community. Through education, research, wellness programs, and clinical services, the clinic helps people of all ages achieve greater fitness, independence, and overall well-being. Beat the Funk is proud to support the Glen and Polly Barton Clinic for Fitness and Function, helping advance its mission of promoting healthier lifestyles and expanding access to valuable health and wellness resources for those who need them most.
What is the Bradley University Glen Polly Barton Clinic for Fitness and Function
The Glen and Polly Barton Clinic for Fitness and Function is a pro-bono (free) clinic operated by the Department of Physical Therapy and Health Science at Bradley University. The clinic was established through a $1 million gift commitment from Polly Barton and her late husband, Glen Barton, former CEO of Caterpillar Inc.
What the Clinic Does
The clinic provides free physical therapy and fitness-focused services to individuals in the Peoria area who are:
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Uninsured
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Underinsured
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In need of supplemental therapy services
The program primarily serves people living with chronic neurological conditions, including:
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Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
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Parkinson's Disease
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Stroke (CVA)
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Spinal Cord Injuries
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Brain Injuries
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Cerebral Palsy
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Neuropathies
Educational Mission
The clinic is staffed by Bradley faculty and students from the university's:
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Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
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Kinesiology and Health Science Programs
More than 100 doctoral students gain hands-on clinical experience each year while providing evidence-based care to community members.
Why It Matters
For individuals living with neurological disorders, ongoing exercise and therapy can be critical for maintaining function and independence. The clinic helps bridge a significant gap in care by offering services at no cost while also training future healthcare professionals.