TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – Go Tyme Grynd, in collaboration with the Lucas County Commissioners Officer, has announced the launch of it’s new program, Hood 2 Health Pro.

With help from the Safety + Justice Challenge Grant, the program aims to empower formerly incarcerated and justice impacted individuals to earn fitness training certifications and build businesses tailored to uplift struggling communities and combat Toledo’s crime rate and health crisis.

“At one time, I brought a lot of harm to my community. But after being incarcerated for 16 years, I was blessed with the opportunity to bring healing to it,” said DeAndre Gaston, founder of Go Tyme Grynd and an ISSA Certified Elite Fitness Trainer. “A second chance saved my life and is enabling me to save others.”

According to GTG, the Hood 2 Health Pro Program offers participants comprehensive fitness training and nutrition coaching certification, professional-grade promotional materials, access to fully equipped gym spaces, hands-on training and career mentoring. Participants will design and lead free fitness programs for their communities, fostering wellness and resilience.

GTG says those who are interested must live in the area zip codes 43604, 43606, 43607, 43608 or 43610.

To apply, interested individuals must submit a statement describing their involvement with the justice system, how this opportunity will impact their lives and allow them to impact their communities. Submissions can be sent to [email protected], or texted to 419-702-0509.

The deadlines for submissions is March 2, 2024 at 11:59pm.

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