Family Service Center

Chicago Pulls for Hope is a team-based, deadlift-only powerlifting meet - no powerlifting experience necessary! Mark your calendars for May 10, 2025 at Chicago Elite Fitness to participate or cheer on your friends!

Athletes have been asked to find sponsors to pledge to donate an amount per pound lifted (ie $1/lb, $0.50/lb, $0.25/lb) for their best deadlift attempt at the meet.

Interested in sponsoring the event? Any amount is appreciated, however:

✨$2,500 can fund a family’s counseling journey

✨$1,000 can fund an education program and spark change

✨$500 can fund a youth Health & Safety Assessment

✨$250 can fund the ability to reach out into the community

✨$100 can fund art, play, and sensory therapy supplies

Please note, if you are donating on behalf of an athlete or team, be sure to mention their name in "words of support" so we can credit them!

OUR WHY:

We are committed to raising awareness about mental health and ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need to lead healthier, more balanced lives. We believe that true well-being stems from a holistic approach that supports both mental and physical health.

Strength Does Not Equal Identity:
Your worth is not defined by your physical strength or athletic performance. We believe in helping individuals separate their self-worth from external achievements and focus on building overall well-being, both mentally and physically.

Recognizing Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms:
Exercise and physical activity are proven to benefit mental health. However, when exercise becomes a means of avoiding life’s challenges, it can be more harmful than helpful. We are dedicated to helping people identify when their training habits have crossed into unhealthy territory and encouraging healthier ways to cope.

Exploring Alternatives to Sport for Mental Health:
While sport and physical activity are essential aspects of mental well-being, they are not the only tools. We advocate for exploring a broad spectrum of practices—such as mindfulness, creative outlets, and therapy—to promote mental health in diverse and sustainable ways.

Expanding Mental Health Support:
We are proud to partner with Family Service Center, a non-profit community health agency serving Chicagoland. Family Service Center provides vital services such as counseling, crisis response, outreach, and education to individuals and families in need. All proceeds from our initiatives will be donated to support their mission and further strengthen these essential services