Meet the Board of Directors

"I started lifting during a dark period in my life. I wasn't sure why I needed it so badly, or what I was trying to prove, but ultimately, it didn't matter. Lifting gave me hope and eased my suicidal thoughts. It became my therapy.  It made me wonder...What if I had discovered this sooner? Who else is out there struggling to find a way, an answer, or a reason to keep going?  I now compete nationally and hold a world record bench in my weight and division.  I truly believe that if you build a strong body, a strong mind will follow.  I hope to create a program that supports and inspires others to realize their potential and achieve their goals."

"I found my strength only after I knew weakness. I was assaulted at a young age, which developed an eating disorder into my early twenties. When I was told I would die if I kept living the way I was, I decided to live, and find something worth living for.  I've since worked with homeless youth and at risk-populations. I believe there is hope for everyone, and finding outer strength saved my life in helping me unlock my inner strength".

"I began lifting weights to increase lower-body strength after seven years of aerial dance (circus tricks!). I fell in love with the feeling of power and surprise that came with being a small woman moving big weights. What means the most to me is the community I found: A group of women who are incredibly supportive, accepting, and real. This community, along with lifting, has helped me process my past trauma. I am a survivor of domestic abuse. I want other people people to feel the love of the lifting community and their own strength under the barbell".