Hi everyone, my name is Melvin Rosado, and I’m a teacher at the Urban Assembly School for Applied Math and Science, Bathgate Campus, in the Bronx. Before becoming an educator, I served in the U.S. Army, where I discovered my passion for fitness—whether it was weightlifting, running, or just pushing my limits. The gym was more than just a place to work out; it gave me hope and helped me endure the challenges of military life.

I was born and raised in the Bronx, and I know firsthand how difficult it can be to find safe spaces to train and stay active. When I was 18, I wanted to join a gym and would walk to the local gym on 184th and Grand Concourse. One night, on my way there, I was randomly jumped and robbed by three older men in their 30s. That experience didn’t stop me—I just started going to the gym earlier in the day. But it showed me the struggles of growing up in an area where fitness opportunities weren’t always easily accessible or safe.

At 23, I was benching 315 lbs and running a mile in six minutes. Fitness became a lifelong passion, and when I got my teaching job at Bathgate, I was excited to see that the school had a weight room. It was humbling to know that students had access to something I never did at their age. That’s why I started a weightlifting club—to give them guidance, structure, and a safe place to develop their strength and confidence.

Unfortunately, our equipment is outdated, and we want to give our students a gym that truly inspires them. We’re raising funds to upgrade our weight room with a new treadmill, StairMaster, Smith machine, dumbbells, Olympic bars, squat rack, and more.

For these students, fitness can be life-changing. It teaches discipline, builds confidence, and provides an outlet in a city that isn’t always easy to grow up in. This isn’t just about upgrading equipment—it’s about giving these kids a space where they feel safe, motivated, and empowered.

Any contribution, big or small, will make a difference. Thank you for helping us build a better future for our students—one lift at a time!