If you’re asking “what happened to Barbells for Boobs,” you’re not alone. Many in the fitness community have noticed the organization’s shift in recent years, and we’re here to clarify its current status.
What Happened to Barbells for Boobs
Barbells for Boobs was a well-known nonprofit that used fitness fundraising, especially through CrossFit workouts, to support breast cancer detection and care. They focused on helping people under 40 who often fell through the cracks of traditional screening. So, what changed? The organization didn’t disappear, but it underwent a significant transformation that surprised many supporters.
The Major Rebranding and Name Change
The most direct answer to “what happened” is a complete rebrand. In 2022, Barbells for Boobs officially changed its name to The Breasties. This wasn’t just a new logo—it was a merger of two powerful groups.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the merger:
* Barbells for Boobs: Founded in 2009 by Zionna Munoz, it was famous for its “Grace” fundraiser workouts.
* The Breasties: Founded in 2017 by survivors Allie Brumel, Bri Majsiak, and Paige More, it focused on community support and advocacy.
* The Result: The two organizations joined forces, keeping The Breasties as the unified name to reflect a broader mission.
The leaders felt the old name, while catchy, could be limiting and sometimes misinterpreted. They wanted a title that directly honored the community they served.
Why the Change Was Made
The rebrand was driven by a desire to be more inclusive and to better represent their expanded mission. The focus shifted from primarily funding mammograms to providing wider support.
Key reasons for the change included:
1. Inclusivity: They wanted to support all people affected by breast and gynecological cancers, including men, transgender, and non-binary individuals.
2. Beyond Screening: Their work grew to include mental health support, patient advocacy, and creating community connections.
3. Evolving Language: The term “boobs” was seen by some as informal, and the new name aimed for a more respectful, encompassing tone.
What The Breasties Does Now
So, if Barbells for Boobs is now The Breasties, what do they actually do? Their programs have expanded considerbly. You can think of them as having three main pillars.
Community Support and Programs
This is the heart of their work. They run virtual and in-person meetups, retreats, and peer-to-peer matching programs. They create safe spaces for people to connect, share stories, and find friendship during and after treatment. It’s a vital network that many members rely on.
Advocacy and Education
The Breasties is now a strong voice in patient advocacy. They work to educate both the public and medical professionals on issues like:
* Early detection in young people
* Fertility preservation before cancer treatment
* Mental health resources for patients and caregivers
* They also push for better insurance coverage and policy changes.
Fundraising and Fitness Events
Don’t worry—the fitness spirit of Barbells for Boobs lives on! The iconic “Grace” workout fundraiser and other fitness events remain a core part of their fundraising strategy. The money raised now supports their wider array of programs, not just mammogram grants.
How to Get Involved or Seek Support Today
If you’re inspired by their mission, here’s how you can engage with the organization now.
For Those Seeking Support:
* Visit their official website: thebreasties.org
* Look into their “Programs” section to find support groups and retreats.
* Follow their social media channels (Instagram, Facebook) for daily community and resources.
For Those Wanting to Help:
* Donate: You can make a direct financial contribution on their site.
* Fundraise: You can still organize or participate in a “Grace” workout fundraiser in your local gym.
* Volunteer: They often need help with events, outreach, and moderating online communities.
* Spread Awareness: Simply sharing their new name and mission with friends makes a big difference.
Common Misconceptions Cleared Up
Let’s address a few frequent questions and mix-ups people have.
* “Did they shut down?” No, they merged and rebranded. They are very much active.
* “Do they still help pay for mammograms?” Yes, but as part of a larger set of support services.
* “Is it only for women?” Absolutely not. The Breasties explicitly welcomes all genders affected by breast and gynecological cancers.
The transition shows how a good organization can grow to meet the changing needs of it’s community. While the familiar name is gone, the core mission of empowerment and support is stronger than ever.
FAQ Section
Q: What is Barbells for Boobs called now?
A: The organization is now named The Breasties. This was the result of a merger between the two groups.
Q: Does The Breasties still do workout fundraisers?
A: Yes, fitness fundraisers like the “Grace” workout are still a major part of their fundraising efforts. Many CrossFit gyms continue to host these events.
Q: Can men get support from The Breasties?
A: Yes. A key reason for the rebrand was to be inclusive of all genders, including men diagnosed with breast cancer.
Q: How do I access their grant or support programs?
A: All program information and applications are available on their website at thebreasties.org. The process is straightforward and their team is helpful.
Q: Why did they change the name from Barbells for Boobs?
A: The primary reasons were to be more inclusive of all people affected and to better reflect their expanded services beyond just funding mammograms.
Q: Is my old Barbells for Boobs merchandise still relevant?
A: Of course! Wearing it shows your long-term support and can be a conversation starter to tell people about the organizations evolution. It represents the foundation of the work.
The story of Barbells for Boobs is ultimately one of growth. By adapting their name and expanding their vision, they’ve ensured they can help more people in more meaningful ways for years to come. If you’re looking for support or a way to contribute, The Breasties continues that important legacy.