When Amy Klobucher opened her gym, Rogue River CrossFit, in Rockford, MI, almost 11 years ago, she said one of her goals was to “strengthen the [greater] community and give back. “
More than a decade later, Klobucher has lived up to her commitment.
Through their annual in-house competition, her community has raised almost $60,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and for West Michigan Veteran’s Coalition, which provides resources and connections to resources for veterans and their families.
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The Details
Over the weekend of Sept. 21, 2024, the gym’s annual “Rumble at the Rogue” competition raised $8,000 for the West Michigan Veteran’s Coalition, and Klobucher told us there’s still money coming in.
Before this year, their charity of choice was the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, as one of Klobucher’s members had a child with the condition.
- In the last seven years, the gym raised $50,000 for the organization.
This year, however, those parents suggested that since the gym has done so much for juvenile diabetes already, it might be a good time to spread the love to another worthy organization.
Ryan Burke, a gym member and former Marine, suggested the West Michigan Veteran’s Coalition.
- “They were so gracious in helping out and making it a seamless transition,” Burke said, adding that it just shows the power of community.
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The Big Picture
Even though being a gym owner is tough enough on its own, raising money for those who need it is a non-negotiable for Klobucher.
- “There are a lot of gyms who run competitions and make money [for the business], and that would be really great, too, so we’re probably not being the best business owners,” she said. “But the feeling you get in just seeing everyone come together and giving back is so rewarding…It’s hard to describe.”
More Affiliates of the Month
- Dreamtown CrossFit Owner Jason Berger Chooses Happiness and Health Over Wealth
- Mach983 CrossFit Serves at-Risk Youth, Formerly Incarcerated Individuals, and Veterans in Colorado
- All Level CrossFit Doing All the Good Deeds in Ontario
Featured image: Meagan Clausen, @clausenmeagan / Instagram
