Local Gym Earns $1,000 Reward for Year-Round Special Needs Athletics Program

Todd and Paul Turner have always been sports fanatics. The brothers started out coaching, teaching, and developing middle-school aged student athletes for team sports. This year, Todd and Paul opened Team GUTS (Ground up Training Systems) which includes sports and fitness for special needs children and adults; an underserved group which hits close to home. Todd’s daughter has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and Autism.

They are dedicated to helping individuals with special needs increase muscle mass and stay in shape because fitness options in the special needs community are almost nonexistent. They offer scholarships to families in need of financial assistance and affirm that “No family will be turned away.”

Receiving more than 75 percent of votes in the month of November, the $1,000 award from Thornton & Grooms will help Team GUTS purchase an AED, (Automated External Defibrillator) for their Ferndale-based facility.

Team GUTS offers Zumba dance, one-on-one strength training, martial arts, and sports camps and will continuously add to their program offerings. To help Team GUTS or include your child in such a valuable program contact Team GUTS at 855-998-GUTS (4887).

Thornton & Grooms uses their Monthly Hearts & Heroes Award to provide assistance to local charitable organizations, schools, or groups in need, in their service area; recognizing their efforts and awarding $1,000 to their cause. To nominate an organization for an upcoming Hearts & Heroes Award, visit our website: ThorntonAndGrooms.com/nomination.