Performance Initiatives, a not-for-profit 501 c3 organization founded in 2005 in Savannah, Georgia, is dedicated to educating and mentoring youth and adults through athletics and fitness, with Olympic-style weightlifting as its core focus. Since its inception, Performance Initiatives has been empowering transient and underserved youth aged 7 through college to realize their full potential both on and off the weightlifting platform. The organization has a proven track record of producing international, Pan-American, and American champions, with many athletes achieving remarkable feats and breaking records. Beyond athletic achievements, Performance Initiatives has facilitated numerous college scholarships, supported academic success, and fostered increased community engagement among its participants.
Under the leadership of founder and director Kerri Goodrich, a former member of the U.S. Women’s Weightlifting National team, Performance Initiatives embodies a philosophy centered on nurturing positive character traits in its youth program participants. Goodrich, with her extensive coaching experience dating back to 2002, has led student-athletes to compete in weightlifting events worldwide, including prestigious competitions like the Youth World Championships. The organization’s collaborative efforts with Coastal Empire Weightlifting and CrossFit Savannah underscore its commitment to holistic development, emphasizing mental, physical, and spiritual growth through athletic pursuits.
Located in Savannah City for easy accessibility, Performance Initiatives strives to simplify the fitness journey for individuals seeking to embark on a new path towards wellness. By leveraging the transformative power of Olympic weightlifting, the organization aims to instill hope and encouragement in those who may have never experienced such support before. Through its comprehensive programs and unwavering dedication to mentorship, Performance Initiatives continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of its participants, fostering a culture of excellence, resilience, and community engagement.