24-7 Fitness to hold annual charity event
On Wednesday, Dec. 15, 24/7 Fitness of South Fort Myers is hosting a charity toy drive where 100 percent of the proceeds will benefit the less fortunate children who attend Three Oaks Elementary School.
Fort Myers Beach resident Brian Raymond is the owner of the gym at 16450 S. Tamiami Trail in The Forest Plaza. He is a Fort Myers Beach resident and son of FMB Vice Mayor Bob Raymond and wife, Donna, a Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation member. FMBCF has donated 45 bicycle helmets.
“We are proud to say that this year’s event is already showing to be a success, but there are always more kids we could help.” said Raymond.
The annual “Spirit of the Holidays” event and philanthropic evening, held on site at 24/7 Fitness, will be hosting a toy donation drop-off and Bench Press Contest. Guests are invited to take part in the weight-lifting competition by registering at the gym with a toy and/or a $10 donation. Contestants receive supplement packages from VPX and other suppliers, as well as commemorative items for taking part in the event.
Anyone is invited to join in the festivities by bringing in new, unwrapped toys or purchase tickets for a chance to win a bevy of prizes donated by local business sponsors. Prizes including beach activity rentals, dining vouchers, Medical Weight Loss programs, free gym memberships, training packages and other items.
Additionally, guests will enjoy live music from, local artist, Side Show Bob and complimentary food and hors d’oeuvres from Pizza Dlux and Porky’s Bar-B-Que. The Fort Myers Fire Department will be offering kids an opportunity to hop aboard the Fire Engine and learn about fire safety. The event is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. with prize drawing beginning promptly at 8 p.m.
Last year’s annual event helped benefit the students at San Carlos Park Elementary. Gym members, individuals in the community and area businesses contributed more than 40 bikes and bike helmets. Donated toys collected, totaled over $4,000, providing local families with the opportunity to have gifts for their children in the spirit of the Holidays.
“I have not been able to find work for almost 6 months and was not going to be able to provide gifts for my kids,” said one recipient’s father. “Thanks to the gym and the community, it was possible.”
Raymond and his team have been working hard this year to make this event an even bigger impact for the children. Current local sponsors include: Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation, who donating 45 bike helmets; Marina Mikes; Adventure Water Sports; NuVive Medical Weight Loss; Paradigm Gallery LLC.; Airport Auto Parts; You Look Mahvalous; Larue Pest Control; and Tunaskin Clothing.