East Brainerd's iLoveKickboxing is offering locals the chance to get a workout while supporting Second Life Tennessee, an organization that aims to eradicate human trafficking in the region. The gym is hosting a fundraising class Saturday, Nov. 3 from 12:30-1:45 p.m.Local kickboxing gym iLoveKickboxing Hamilton Place is asking people to literally help fight human trafficking through a fundraising event it's hosting to promote the efforts of Second Life Tennessee. The nonprofit organization's mission is to end human trafficking in Lower East Tennessee by increasing awareness of the issue; advocating for legislation, regulations and policies to prevent human trafficking; and providing support services for survivors.
While modern-day slavery may seem like a problem that affects mainly people in developing countries or large cities, many people are surprised to learn that the issue exists right in our own backyards. According to the Second Life Tennessee website, research conducted by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and Vanderbilt University has shown that 85 percent of Tennessee counties have seen some level of adult trafficking, and 72 percent of counties in the state have reported the trafficking of minors.
"Second Life is not only working toward the complete eradication of sex trafficking, but also provides services for survivors to help them reclaim their futures," said Alex Thieme, studio manager at iLoveKickboxing Hamilton Place, when asked why the gym is hosting a fundraiser for the organization. "At iLoveKickboxing Hamilton Place, we believe that we have a responsibility to give back to the community and help wherever we are able, however we are able. Both staff and members are passionate about fostering a sense of togetherness and generosity both inside and outside of the gym."
The event is set for Saturday, Nov. 3 from 12:30-1:45 p.m. Attendees will punch, kick and sweat their way through an intense 50-minute kickboxing class, in which they'll learn proper striking and kicking technique and push themselves beyond what they thought they were capable of, said Thieme.
For those who are not members of iLoveKickboxing Hamilton Place, the cost to reserve a kickboxing bag for the event is $15 and includes the use of a pair of gloves. All money raised through bag reservations will go to Second Life's survivor services program, and the gym will also donate 10 percent of the day's apparel sales to the program.
People who don't want to participate in the class can make donations to Second Life, and for every on-site donation, iLoveKickboxing will give donors a gift bag to show appreciation for their support of the cause. The goal is to raise more than $1,000 that day, said Thieme.
Bag reservations can be made through Friday, Nov. 2, or until all spots are filled. To reserve a bag online, visit bit.ly/2PPYwqV.
The gym is at 1309 Panorama Drive and can be reached at 680-6333. To learn more about Second Life Tennessee, visit secondlifetn.org.
Email Emily Crisman at ecrisman@timesfreepress.com