Fund Recipient Wishes To Lose Weight, Gain Confidence
Achieva’s Cecil and David Rosenthal Memorial Fund (the Fund), which provides grants to people with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD), has provided one fortunate Greensburg resident with the gift of health and hope. Thanks to the Fund, 22-year-old Jamie Lewis-Ojeda received a personal training package from GYMGUYZ for in-home, onsite, and virtual training.
Mr. Lewis-Ojeda was less active throughout the pandemic, and he missed opportunities for social engagement. A diabetes diagnosis and weight gain affected his self-esteem and lowered his desire to follow a healthy lifestyle. Thanks to the financial assistance offered via the Fund, Jamie received an assessment of current fitness capabilities and a personalized exercise program from GYMGUYZ Pittsburgh. GYMGUYZ is a national franchise that provides in-home and online personal training services. GYMGUYZ certified personal trainers work with clients of any fitness level. GYMGUYZ Pittsburgh’s adaptive program, led by Dr. Dave Lorenzi, considers pre-existing conditions when customizing a plan and conveniently brings equipment to clients. The program would have been unaffordable to Jamie without the assistance of the Fund. Jamie’s goal is to lose weight and gain confidence to return to the activities he once enjoyed.
The Fund was created following the tragedy at the Tree of Life Synagogue. Two men supported by Achieva, Cecil and David Rosenthal, were among the victims. In the brothers’ memory, Achieva received generous donations from all over the world, prompting the Achieva Board of Trustees to create “The Cecil and David Rosenthal Memorial Fund.” The Fund supports community engagement activities pursued by people with IDD. Grants from the Fund provide opportunities for technology, travel, educational expenses, equipment, and more. Ongoing fundraising efforts by Achieva help maintain and grow the Fund, preserving the legacy of Cecil and David.
Achieva encourages applicants to apply for the funds through its online application. Fund resources may be used to help people with IDD participate in society and engage in their community. Previously announced awards included everything from a trip to Hershey Park to dozens of iPads. Since the Fund’s inception, nearly 100 people have received grants totalling almost $20,000. Achieva eagerly anticipates further distributions in memory of Cecil and David. An applicant’s vision for a life of personal significance is the key to imagining how the funds can be used.
Read more in Summer Newsletter