HomeJonathan Martinez
New York Lambda - St. John's University
My Iron Phi Story
Jon's Journey to Becoming an Iron Phi
During this time, the world is facing many hardships; however, I see this as an opportunity to push my boundaries and help make the world a better place. I will be challenging myself to become my chapter's first Iron Phi - a distinction given to a small percentage of members within my Fraternity. The mission of Iron Phi is to strengthen the Phi Delta Theta International Fraternity and the impact it has on the fight against Lou Gehrig's disease through the fundraising and athletic efforts of its members. Lou Gehrig was a member of Phi Delta Theta, and our organization has taken an active role in finding a cure.
The net proceeds will support ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) research, education, screening and treatment. It will also help strengthen my organization (Phi Delta Theta) that has had a lasting impact on my life.
Approximately 5,600 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with ALS each year. It is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. Motor neurons reach from the brain to the spinal cord and from the spinal cord to the muscles throughout the body. The progressive degeneration of the motor neurons in ALS eventually leads to their death. That's why I'm becoming an Iron Phi. To do something bold about Lou Gehrig's disease.
On January 26, 2021, I reached my personal goal of $1,000, making me eligble for Iron Phi Status. I'd like to thank everyone who helped me achieve this great accomplishment. However, My journey is not over yet, I will contiue raise money for the LiveLikeLou foundation and set a new goal of $1,500. Would you please consider making a donation? You can make a donation on this page by clicking on the "Make a Gift" link below the thermometer.
I've completed 5,500 reps at the Phi Delta Theta NYC leadership retreat to raise awareness for the amount of people in the US who are newly diagnosed with ALS each Year.
Also, on February 6, 2021, I will be competing in NYCRUNS Frozen Penguin 5k. It will be a difficult task, but I will unleash my inner Goggins and give it my all.
I hope that you'll share this incredible adventure with me - by supporting me in my fundraising efforts.
Thank you in advance for your generosity!
Sincerely,
Jonathan Martinez
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How Does My Donation Make a Difference?
Your donation towards an Iron Phi athlete equally supports two very important things: Supporting ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) through research and support of ALS families and leadership development for undergraduate members of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity.
At the end of each year calendar year, the LiveLikeLou Foundation grants dollars raised through Iron Phi to fund its initiatives that support ALS research, scholarships to support the higher education goals of ALS dependents, and summer camp experiences for children who have a parent or grandparent with ALS.
Dollars used for undergraduate leadership development have and continue to help Phi Delta Theta educate more of its undergraduate members as they work to “Become the Greatest Version of Themselves.”
