On Memorial Day, we partnered with Camp Hope to host “Pull-Ups for a Purpose.” The event raised an incredible amount totaling $100,362.14 for the PTSD Foundation of America and Camp Hope.

Pull-Ups for a Purpose took place at the Jonathan Kim Gym, that opened at Camp Hope in the fall of 2016, benefitting veterans battling PTSD and reside on site. During the event our COO, Jonathan Kim, attempted 2,000 pull-ups in 10 hours and 30 minutes. He was able to complete 1,840, determined to meet the goal, but finding it a challenge to press on. Four veterans, Camp Hope residents, stepped up to the bar to help him finish strong. Together, they were able to complete 2,000 pull-ups. But Jonathan had one more left in him, and brought the total up to 2,001 in the final moments.

After completing the pull-ups, Jonathan addressed the veterans of at Camp Hope. “You loved us enough to go out and sacrifice your lives, the ultimate sacrifice. I told the staff the other day, ‘Who doesn’t know a veteran who has gone out and made that sacrifice?’”

Below are a few statistics about PTSD from the PTSD Foundation of America:

  • One in three returning troops are being diagnosed with serious PTSD symptoms, less than 40% will seek help.
  • Houston is third largest military retirement community and the 2nd largest veteran community in the U.S.
  •  On average, five active-duty troops attempt suicide each day.

“We have to make people aware of this, and show them that there is hope. I can’t tell you how much love I have for you all,” Jonathan added before receiving a heartfelt round of applause from the veterans, contributors and supporters present for his commitment and appreciation. We are committed to reinvesting in both team members and local community, and hope to continue to make an impact in raising awareness for PTSD and our veterans.

         

Thank you to our loyal patrons, valued vendors, team and community for supporting Pull-Ups for a Purpose. We could not have reached our goal without you! Also, a big thank you to Guidry’s Cruisin’ Cajun Kitchen and Nacho Nachos, who donated food to Camp Hope during the event.

 

A special thanks to our vendors:

Deer Park Crossfit
Central Bank
Domac
Guidry’s Cajun Kitchen
Houston Avocado
JJ Isbell
Liquid Assets
Martin Foods
Michael Berry
Proforma Brand Proformance (spelt this way on purpose)
Seafood Wholesalers
Spec’s Wine, Spirits & Finer Foods
Starflite Aviation
Sysco
Tx Metal
U.S. Foods
Watkin’s & Co., Inc.