fit7

Originally from St. Paul, MN, I grew up in a family of seven where service for others was a way of life. With both my sister and parents navigating life in wheelchairs, I learned early on the value of compassion, resilience, and community.

After over 35 years of leadership experience in corporate America, I felt a calling to give back in a more personal and impactful way. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring several young men, helping them navigate life’s challenges and discover their potential.

I firmly believe that children are our future. At fit7, my mission is to introduce young people to Jesus, help them recognize they are deeply loved, and provide them with tools to succeed spiritually, emotionally, and practically. Through programs like art workshops, team sports, and job preparation, I’m committed to creating opportunities for kids to grow in a safe and nurturing environment.

Mathew 8:3-5

 "Truly I tell you, unless you become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.  Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.  And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me." 

Born in Portugal and brought to the United States at age 6, I remained in the foster care

system for almost 11 years. Some of the homes I was placed in were good homes,

many others were not. I became addicted to alcohol at a very young age as a way to

dull the emotional and physical chaos around me (by the grace of God, I have been

sober for 32 years now).

After being kicked out of college, I joined the US Army where I spent the next 28 years. I

had finally found the family I never had. Unfortunately, I ended up losing many of those

family members over the years leaving an even deeper hole than before. Shortly after

my retirement is when my world completely fell apart. With no mission, no orders, and

no purpose I began spiraling and eventually made a plan to end my life. BUT GOD,

being rich in mercy, had a different plan.

Over the next several years, God surrounded me with people who protected, uplifted,

encouraged, and continued to keep pointing me back to Him. Today, I can honestly and

peacefully say “It is well with my soul”. I have made a multitude of mistakes over the

years, but I have learned that the only one holding that shame over my head was me.

Living in the knowledge and depth of God’s mercy and grace is my new story.

We all have a story. You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start

where you are and change the ending (CS Lewis). I now choose to not only lean into

God’s plan and purpose for my life, but to also share with every other person about the

life-changing love of Jesus.

As a mother of three, I recognize that each and every child matters and it is my hope to

help each one of them understand just that. Being a part of the fit7 leadership team is

my story coming full circle. Our well-rounded programs, centered around mind, body,

and spirit, will help kids excel to become the young men and women that God intended

them to be.

Our hope is that you will join us in raising kids that will positively influence and impact

their community, creating a better world for the generations to come.

Psalm 139:16-19

 "Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How precious are your thoughts, O God! How vast are the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand- when I awake, I am still with you." 

Meet MJ, the French Bulldog with a big heart and an even bigger personality! As the official Chief Encouragement Officer of fit7, MJ’s mission is simple: spread love, bring smiles, and remind everyone that they are wonderfully made.With his playful spirit and gentle nature, MJ is always ready to cheer on the kids, offer a comforting snuggle, or simply be a loyal friend to those who need it. Whether he’s wagging his tail during team sports, supervising art projects with his curious eyes, or patiently listening to a child read, MJ makes fit7 feel like home.When he’s not on duty, MJ enjoys treats, belly rubs, and an occasional nap in the sun (and yes, that’s him snoring!). But no matter what, he’s always there to remind the fit7 family that love, faith, and friendship make every day a little brighter.🐾 Favorite Bible Verse: “Let all that you do be done in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:14