Alix Laraque-Two Elk, opened Gym’s House in Littleton to be more than just another gym option for the community. It was about creating a place for people to come together with the common goal to look after their health and wellness.
After studying violence and the factors that influence someone’s propensity toward violence, Laraque-Two Elk said he saw the critical stages in youth development where intervention can change their trajectory.
He began coaching youth sports, then worked in security for Denver Public Schools. Laraque-Two Elk earned a patrol position for the district and then became an emergency preparedness specialist, during which he conducted training and coordinated emergency plans for the district. In these roles, Laraque-Two Elksaw first-hand the ways to help lead youth away from violence — by encouraging their athleticism and getting them involved in community service.
“I found a ton of research that showed the positive results that come from getting youth engaged in their communities, and I saw the outcomes myself,” Laraque-Two Elk said. “There’s a ton of benefits — they get physical activity which helps with mental health and … their sense of connection and belonging (strengthens), which reduces marginalization.”
Gym’s House’s official mission is to create a fitness community dedicated to building and sustaining long-term habits that encourages healthy lifestyles, service toward others, positive work ethic and youth empowerment, Laraque-Two Elk said.
In 2021, Gym’s House opened its doors, offering memberships and training. Located at 9729 W. Coal Mine Ave., Unit T, in Littleton, Gym’s House offers annual and monthly memberships, including a special deal for youth — students have the opportunity to earn their Gym’s House membership by volunteering for community service work.
To link students to volunteer opportunities, the gym partners with the Rotary Club of Littleton, a community service organization that boasts more than 100 years serving Littleton that provides financial and volunteer support to local organizations and projects.
The Rotary partnership inspired Laraque-Two Elk to host a new fundraising event called Reps & Rides Rally to benefit the Rotary Club and Littleton’s Shiloh House. Shiloh House is a nonprofit that provides services for children and families who are facing challenges, particularly those affected by trauma.
“People that I talk to generally don’t know what Rotary is, so I wanted to think of a fun way to give exposure to Littleton Rotary, help raise funds to support them in their mission, and provide an opportunity for people to give back,” Laraque-Two Elk said. “I also wanted to make sure that some of the funds raised went to a cause I am passionate about — kids. I heard about Shiloh House and … I wanted to make sure that they were a beneficiary for this event as well.”
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on July 19, Gym’s House’s parking lot will be packed with local vendors, show cars and gym equipment.
Laraque-Two Elk said he thought a car show that features classic and customized vehicles would be an exciting way for attendees to get involved with the fundraising effort by casting a vote — at $5 per vote — for their fan favorite.
“I also wanted to add another stream of fundraising, and I remembered when my older kids were little, I was asked to help them raise funds during their Lap-a-Thons,” Laraque-Two Elk said. “So I created a Lift-a-Thon, where participants can exercise and raise money through friends and family.”
A Lift-A-Thon has people compete in head-to-head challenges like push-ups, squats and weightlifting. The athlete’s friends and family can pledge donations based on performance.
Additionally, the fundraising event will feature workshops and mini-demos by local businesses. Raffles and giveaways will take place throughout the day.
“The Reps & Rides Rally is about more than cars and strength — it’s about bringing people together. We’ve created an experience that blends energy, charity and community. All for our community here in Littleton,” Laraque-Two Elk said.