My name is Chip Kafka. I am the Group Fitness Director for the City clubs at Merritt Athletic Clubs. While there are many everyday operational aspects to my job, there is one part that I am truly passionate about.
Each year, I have the opportunity to partner with community organizations to hold fundraiser group fitness events. Four years ago I was asked to host fundraiser classes to benefit the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer campaign (MSABC). For our inaugural year of partnership, we held a BodyCombat vs BodyAttack 90 minute challenge class, a special 90-minute RPM class and a hip-hop cycle class. These three classes alone raised over $3,500 and launched a new partnership between group fitness at Merritt and MSABC. The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer classes really took off and are among our most well-attended classes each year.
The following year I was invited to the MSABC kick-off breakfast. Being a part of this fun and inspiring event each year has helped me develop a new passion for this cause. I have been inspired by the many individuals battling breast cancer. I have learned so much about the importance of early detection and treatment, groundbreaking therapies and most importantly, the stories of those fighting this terrible disease.
This year I have the honor of being named one of 16 men in the Baltimore community who will be raising awareness and funds as a part of Real Men Wear Pink. I will be “competing” for the title “Real Man of Baltimore” as I raise funds and awareness for breast cancer between now and the end of October. You will see me at the clubs, in my classes, and around town sporting PINK for the next 6 weeks!
As an extra motivation/incentive, each week I will be doing something fitness-wise, in addition to the classes I teach, in hopes that you will donate to this cause. Last week, thanks to your generosity, I completed 780 pushups! Special thanks to those of you who donated on my special “bonus pushup days”.
This week, I will be swimming 1 lap for every dollar you donate! I will be posting videos and pictures on my Facebook and Instagram accounts. My goal as part of my time representing Merritt during this campaign is to raise awareness for how much fighting cancer really costs. I also plan to show you how those funds are used for those battling breast cancer here in Baltimore. Each donation I receive will be part of the total Merritt Athletic Clubs donation to MSABC.
The link to my support me and this awesome cause:
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?px=35334452&pg=personal&fr_id=78189
I thank you for your support in advance.
