The Monroe Police Department and The Pilates Studio Co., located downtown, are teaming up for a unique fundraising event that will put officers’ endurance to the test while supporting an important public safety resource.

On Thursday, July 23, Monroe police officers will take on a Reformer Plank Challenge at The Pilates Studio Co. to raise money for the Monroe Police Department’s K-9 Unit. The event, dubbed “The Force vs. The Core” and co-hosted by Main Street Monroe, Inc. invites community members to sponsor participating officers or make general donations, with all proceeds benefiting the department’s K-9 program.

The challenge centers on holding a plank position on a Pilates reformer, an exercise that typically lasts about one minute but demands significant core strength and endurance. In addition to friendly competition among officers, the event aims to highlight the important role the department’s K-9 Unit plays in serving the community.

Support for the fundraiser has been strong. Everest Nutrition, located across the street on 16th Avenue, is creating a custom drink for the event. Thus far, community members, including downtown businesses, have contributed more than $500, prompting The Pilates Studio Co. to fulfill its pledge to match every dollar donated. The matching gift doubled the total to $1,000 raised for the Monroe Police Department’s K-9 Unit, providing an early boost to the campaign.

Community members can sponsor an officer through several giving levels, including Paw Patrol Supporter ($25), Core Crew Sponsor ($50), K-9 Champion Sponsor ($100), and Top Dog Sponsor ($250). Donors may also make a general contribution or donate in honor of a specific officer participating in the event.

Participating officers are Chief Nathan Foltz, who took his current position earlier this year, as well as Officers Serena Parmer and Tyler Hallmark. Foltz and Hallmark believe they can hold a plank for one minute, while Parmer is estimating three minutes. Following the challenge, the studio will host an open house for anyone interested in the space and finding out more about pilates.

“The response from the community has been incredible,” Jenna Alderks, Owner of the Pilates Studio said. “We’re grateful for everyone who has donated, shared the fundraiser and helped us reach this milestone. Every contribution helps support the Monroe Police Department’s K-9 Unit.” Chief Foltz notes that, “our K-9’s have been entirely funded from fundraiser events and donations from the community.”

The Pilates Studio, located at 1106 16th Avenue, opened this past spring. Specializing in Reformer Pilates classes that promote strength, alignment, and intentional movement for everybody, it stresses that no matter your age, gender, or fitness level all are welcome. Multiple class options are offered as well as packages. More information on the studio, including booking classes can be found online at thepilatesstudiomonroe.com.

Those interested in sponsoring an officer or making a donation for “The Force vs. The Core” can contact The Pilates Studio Co. by email at thepilatesstudiomonroe@gmail.com or by calling 815-238-7402.