Our Why
The summer of 2019 changed our lives forever. My daughter, Tamerah was 8 years old when we found ourselves going to numerous doctors for testing, every week for about 6 months. The diagnosis was Systemic Scleroderma, a rare disease that compromises her immune system and affects the function of other parts of her body.
Devastated But Not Defeated.
Shortly after receiving her diagnosis, the world shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Naturally we became fearful because Tamerah was considered high risk due to her health condition. The sudden change from in-person to virtual learning, no visits with family and friends, and experiencing isolation due to quarantine, all started to take an emotional and mental toll on an outgoing kid like Tamerah. She was really missing her teacher and other school staff, family, and friends.
In April 2020, Tamerah received a new bike from her grandma as way to uplift her spirits. Excited and eager, she rode her bike every day. I noticed an immediate positive change in her mood and behavior. During this time of virtual learning, her bike riding even became her daily P.E. activity.
Still wanting to reconnect with family and friends, Tamerah asked if we could invite other kids to ride with us. In June of 2020 she hosted Tamerah's Family Bike Ride and in September 2020 we partnered with the Newport News Police Department to host her 2nd bike ride. Between the two events, approximately 70 friends, family and other community members gathered to ride bikes together. The social reconnection and physical activity was great for everyone!
Becoming A Change Agent.
Seeing first hand how grandma's gift impacted Tamerah, we wanted to extend that same feeling to other children. In 2020, we collected 30 new bikes & helmets in 30 days and helped families who were facing financial hardship due to the pandemic. In 2021, we collected 132 bikes and helmets. Our goal for is collect and distribute 300 new bikes and helmets by 2024.
We know the power of movement! It has been the regular exercise in way of bike riding and other activities, healthier eating, and staying in good spirits that has played a major role in the great reports we continue to receive from Tamerah's doctors.
NewMan Fitness Foundation is committed to providing Simple Solutions that contribute to improving the health and wellness of the communities we serve.
Tanecia Newman
Founder & Executive Director
Devastated But Not Defeated.
Shortly after receiving her diagnosis, the world shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Naturally we became fearful because Tamerah was considered high risk due to her health condition. The sudden change from in-person to virtual learning, no visits with family and friends, and experiencing isolation due to quarantine, all started to take an emotional and mental toll on an outgoing kid like Tamerah. She was really missing her teacher and other school staff, family, and friends.
In April 2020, Tamerah received a new bike from her grandma as way to uplift her spirits. Excited and eager, she rode her bike every day. I noticed an immediate positive change in her mood and behavior. During this time of virtual learning, her bike riding even became her daily P.E. activity.
Still wanting to reconnect with family and friends, Tamerah asked if we could invite other kids to ride with us. In June of 2020 she hosted Tamerah's Family Bike Ride and in September 2020 we partnered with the Newport News Police Department to host her 2nd bike ride. Between the two events, approximately 70 friends, family and other community members gathered to ride bikes together. The social reconnection and physical activity was great for everyone!
Becoming A Change Agent.
Seeing first hand how grandma's gift impacted Tamerah, we wanted to extend that same feeling to other children. In 2020, we collected 30 new bikes & helmets in 30 days and helped families who were facing financial hardship due to the pandemic. In 2021, we collected 132 bikes and helmets. Our goal for is collect and distribute 300 new bikes and helmets by 2024.
We know the power of movement! It has been the regular exercise in way of bike riding and other activities, healthier eating, and staying in good spirits that has played a major role in the great reports we continue to receive from Tamerah's doctors.
NewMan Fitness Foundation is committed to providing Simple Solutions that contribute to improving the health and wellness of the communities we serve.
Tanecia Newman
Founder & Executive Director
NewMan Fitness Foundation's Holiday Bike Drive
Collecting new bikes and helmets for kids. We believe EVERY child deserves the opportunity to create healthy childhood memories. Help us grant the gift of new childhood experiences for families who face tough times during the holiday season. There are many ways to give: CORPORATE SPONSOR: $2,000 12 BIKES & 12 HELMETS + accessories COMMUNITY PARTNER: $500 4 BIKES & 4 HELMETS CHEERFUL GIVER: $250 2 BIKES & 2 HELMETS CONTACT US TO DROP OFF YOUR BIKE & HELMET DONATION |
holiday bike drive
WE believe no child should be denied memorable childhood experiences
If you are in need of assistance during the holidays, we invite you to submit an application to be selected for a bike.
Submitting an application does not guarantee applicant will be chosen.
Applications are available November 20, 2023 to December 15, 2023.
Submitting an application does not guarantee applicant will be chosen.
Applications are available November 20, 2023 to December 15, 2023.
Happy Holidays!