An Airdrie fitness studio is hosting a one-hour clinic on March 5 with funds raised going to support the Canadian Red Cross’ efforts to send both humanitarian and financial aid to those caught in the ongoing military conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
According to the Red Cross’ website, the Government of Canada is matching Red Cross' donations up to $10 million toward the crisis – a goal which has since been met, thanks to donations from Canadians.
The money raised will enable the charitable organization’s International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement to respond to humanitarian needs, and preparedness and response efforts due to the heightened tensions in the nation.
“The support could include preparedness, immediate and ongoing relief efforts, long-term recovery, resiliency, and other critical humanitarian activities as needs arise, both in Ukraine and surrounding communities, including supporting populations displaced,” read a statement on the website.
Jay Raymundo, owner of the F45 Training Studio in Airdrie, said he is hoping local residents will attend the upcoming class or make a donation to the Red Cross in support of those affected by the war in Ukraine.
He said as a local business owner, father, and family man, it pains him to see what families in communities throughout Ukraine are enduring as a result of the Russian invasion.
“Communities have gone through so much already over the last two years with the pandemic with restrictions, and lockdowns – physically, mentally,” he said. “To almost see the light at the end of the tunnel and then to have your community be under attack – I can’t comprehend it.
“Having your family either uprooted or being separated from your family... I just can’t imagine that.”
Raymundo added he knows there are members of the community who have Ukrainian roots or who know people who are directly affected by the conflict, and so he and his team wanted to contribute to help and let people know they’re not alone.
“F45 has always been about supporting their community and they understand that many local Airdronians are also being affected by the devastation happening in the Ukraine,” Raymundo said.
He added fitness has always been a stress reliever in his life, and has been a way of bringing communities together as well.
Those who attend the fitness class on Saturday are encouraged to show their solidarity and unity by donning blue and yellow workout gear – to reflect the colours of the Ukrainian flag – during the in-studio workout.
“As a fitness community and local business, F45 deeply values supporting each other and giving back when they can,” read an F45 press release. “Members will be donating funds throughout the week ending on March 5 during the Blue and Yellow Workouts at the F45 studio.”
Raymundo said the class is open to anyone and you don’t have to be an F45 member to either donate or attend, adding he’d “love to see the community come together” for the event.
“Even if you didn’t want to participate in the workout, we’d love to have your support,” he said. “Any dollar nomination would be great – you can come drop by the studio and make a contribution or donation.”
Those interested in donating funds directly to F45 in support of humanitarian relief in Ukraine can do so until March 5. In addition, Raymundo said the studio is offering an ongoing seven-day trial for $20, with all proceeds going towards the Ukrainian crisis as well.
