To revamp our outdated weight room

Antonito Middle and High School

Antonito, CO

Amount Requested: $1,500

Donation Amount: $150

I am requesting funds to help replace our squat racks with newer universal racks and get newer free weight benches as well as some new dumbbells and barbells. The equipment we have now can accommodate for a small group of 3 to 4 students lifting at a time. Since I have taken over the lifting program at the school, the interest in weight training has increased 3 fold. I now coach an average of 10 to 15 kids in the weight room daily. With 2 new universal racks and free weight benches, I can use them for a plethora of training techniques as the racks can be used for more than just squats. This will allow for me to train more students in a safer manner as the racks will create more space for lifting and they will be more structurally sound. The weight room is also more than just a place for physical activity, I use the classes to also teach my students life lessons that can be learned through the weight room such as how to push through adversity, how to be accountable, how to be apart of a community, and much more. These kids have found a passion for lifting and I would love to be able to provide better equipment for them to pursue this passion. We are also located in a rural area of southern Colorado and this is the only weight room that my students have access to in the town. Being able to provide better quality equipment will help keep more students out of trouble and off the streets outside of school hours and will help them mentally knowing they have a place to go where they are always welcome.