The BUF Story

Build Up Fitness wasn't created in a boardroom—it was born through real relationships, mutual listening, and trust between two caring humans.

It began in March 2020, when Sarah's retail business shut down and she became a volunteer CASA for a 17-year-old in foster care. Through him, she learned what she hadn't fully understood before: that even caring, smart people and well-meaning systems can still leave gaps—especially in consistency, stability, and connection.

"They say the Hall is my second home," he once told her. "But really, it's my first."

She witnessed that truth firsthand. Standing beside him through court dates, housing placements, and transitions, Sarah saw what was missing wasn't just services—it was stable, consistent community and mentorship. Shortly after he turned 18, both gained familiarity with the adult incarceration system, an outcome that's more likely than not for foster youth. (SeeThe Data that Drives Us)

Through him, Sarah met others—young people shaped by poverty, foster care, and mass incarceration. Their strength and determination to break cycles inspired her. She saw powerful nonprofits serving them and noticed a missing space: somewhere they could give, not just receive.

The spark came unexpectedly. 

When Sarah mentioned wanting to get stronger to manage her MS, that same smart capable young man, who was still struggling massively to obtain employment of any kind, offered to train her.  He showed up, celebrated her progress. He gently pushed her past her doubts, when she said "I can't make it! He said, "You can and will."  That role reversal planted a seed: What if more young people pushed to the margins could become certified personal trainers, obtain not just a job, but a job with meaning, growth potential and an opportunity to help others grow stronger?!?

Then Sarah met Jarreau—and Build Up Fitness truly began.

At B.U.F., we offer personal training for everyone ready to challenge themselves, certification for those impacted by mass incarceration, and meaningful career opportunities for young adults facing structural barriers.

Here is a place where strength is built and healing happens. 

Not just fitness—community, redemption, and resilience for all.

Welcome to B.U.F.