CrossFit Oswego opened its
doors in May 2012 with about 50 members (mostly brand new CrossFitters). As we
got to know our members we were somewhat surprised and impressed at the large
number of first responders that started joining (Fire, Police, Military,
Nurses, etc). Yes, we offered them a discount but that's not why they were
there. Yes some of them have soft requirements or incentives for getting and
staying in shape, but that wasn’t it either. Adrenaline junkies? Maybe.
Competitive type? Some.
But it was more than that.
We couldn’t help but notice the physical and emotional differences on the faces
of people after a hard shift. It’s unspoken, but it was there.
We quickly realized that
we had an opportunity. First, we had an answer that we believed to be a
positive outlet, CrossFit. Something to direct some of that tension and emotion
towards. Whether it was the comradery at the box, the loud music, the cursing
out the wall ball or the heavy barbell we could offer a few minutes of peace and
release. Second we felt a strong drive to use this collection of people who
wanted to be more involved (our CFO crew) and try to create an event that
honored the fallen, showed appreciation for our local first responders and
raised money for charity.
We, you, (CrossFit Oswego)
have done that and will be proud to do it again this Friday, September 11,
2015.
I encourage all of you to
come to the event. If you cannot attend please consider purchasing a shirt, or
making a donation. The “Never Forget” shirts and tanks honor the 343
Firefighters and 60 Police Officers that lost their lives on September 11,
2001. The axes and 60 stars on the shirts are symbolic of their mission and
sacrifice. The workout itself is also a symbolic tribute. Costs for the event are
covered by CFO and sponsors (Integrated Physical Medicine, Cinderella Paleo,
UR, 3-2-1 Apparel, Tap House, Kill Cliff) so that all funds raised can be split
among the charities.
This year we have chosen 3
charities to split the funds raised.
Wounded Wodders (501c3)
“We are a 501c3
non-profit organization dedicated to help wounded and injured Veterans use
CrossFit® as part of their recovery. Our main mission is to sponsor Veterans by
providing memberships to CrossFit® affiliates across the country.
We believe
Therapeutic Recreation, in the form of fitness, is a vital component in the
recovery process wounded and injured Veterans. Our philosophy is to provide
Veterans with an inclusive program that identifies overlooked issues in a
Veteran’s recovery. By providing a long term therapeutic recreation program
that uses adaptive CrossFit® we can help improve Veteran’s physical, cognitive
and social functioning.”
The Noah’s Arc Foundation
(501c3)
“Noah’s Arc Foundation
provides diverse opportunities for kids to become more aware and conscious of
their ability to make a positive impact on themselves and their community.
Every child has a unique
passion, one that drives, excites and empowers them. Joakim has it – and his
mother saw it. Now, together, they want to help children tap into those gifts
by encouraging them to discover their true selves through the powerful
combination of art and sports.”
The Kendall County Food
Pantry (501c3)
“Kendall County Food
Pantry is a not-for-profit organization established in 1987 in response to a
growing need in Kendall County, IL. KCFP is charged with the charitable
collection & distribution of food, clothing and related necessities to
those in need, in crisis and/or in emergency situations. Including, but
not limited to, the collection of donated funds for the acquisition of food,
clothing, small household goods, personal products and necessities deemed
necessary for personal use while an individual and/or family is in need.
Kendall County Food Pantry allows individuals/families to receive donated
assistance while regaining self-sustainable status.”
As we wrap up these
final details preparing for Friday, Joe and I are so excited (maybe a little
anxious) for the 2015 event. Thank you so much for your continued support, it
means so much to us! Special thanks to our army of helpers (you know who you
are) who got us equipment, stepped up to volunteer, took off work, baked,
cleaned, etc to get it done. THE BEST #hugetightbox around because you made it
that way!
Thank You!
Gina, Joe, Emily, JoJo & Jackson