A Valpo Life in the Spotlight: Eric Gibson

A Valpo Life in the Spotlight: Eric Gibson

Health and fitness are gifts that you often have to fight to earn. Few know that better than Eric Gibson. If you meet him now, you’ll get to know one of the most passionate wellness advocates around, but it wasn’t always like that for the Valpo resident.

“I struggled with my weight as a child,” he said. “Navigating and correcting that problem on my own taught me a lot about what the human body is capable of, and I learned a lot about myself.”

Now, Gibson is relentless, as staying healthy and fit is a constant project. He is always out and about, often with his family, and lives by a pretty simple philosophy.

“Work hard and move with a purpose,” he said. “I spend most of my time with my wife, Sidney, and daughter, Zoey. I enjoy doing CrossFit and pushing myself to become better in every aspect of my life.”

Gibson’s been on the Board of the Valparaiso YMCA for about two years, channeling his energy for health and fitness into helping his community.

“I feel very strongly about the YMCA’s mission and support them any way possible,” he said. “Health and fitness has made a substantial impact on my life so I want to share that gift. It impacted me in such a profound way that I want to share it with everyone, especially the youth.”

He grew up in Noblesville and attended Ball State University. Over the years in his hometown, at school, and now here in Valpo, Gibson built a huge list of people to cite as influences, but three of them stand out in particular.

“My parents have been incredible role models for me and a support system throughout my life,” Gibson said. “My wife has been an amazing partner and always supports me with whatever crazy ideas I may want to do. I try to pull the best attributes from all of the great folks that surround me, but my biggest influence was my father.”

During the workday, Gibson is a Group Benefits Executive at General Insurance Services. He plays a big role in making sure businesses around the Region offer the best insurance benefits to their employees.

“I have the opportunity to impact the lives of my neighbors when they need it most,” he said. “Employee benefits insurance is a vital part of an organization, and helps attract and retain talent in the Region.”

Since he came to Valpo, one thing in particular has stood out about the city.

“I loves how friendly everyone is,” he said. “It really feels like a community that cares about one another, which is how it should be. We’re all neighbors and all in this together.”