On February 19th, 2021, USMC Captain Matthew Brewer died by suicide. Captain Brewer played middle linebacker at The Naval Academy where he wore the number 38, and then served in the Marine Corps for 8 years before transitioning to be a firefighter in Kansas City.

In response to Matt’s tragic death, his brother, Brandt McCartney, created a warrior workout to memorialize and honor his hero. From 2021-2022, The 38 Challenge has raised over $200,000 for TBI, PTSD, and CTE research and awareness. There are more than 45,000 Veteran non-profits, most of whom have amazing programs created to help veterans in need. There are still more than 22 veterans a day taking their own lives, and these warriors know that help exists. They know the numbers to call and the organizations that are out there.. The problem is that they don’t want to ask for help because it is viewed as weak.

Through our events, community, and advocacy, The 38 Challenge shows Veterans that seeking help and showing vulnerability is a sign of STRENGTH. Our goal is to empower warriors to take the first step towards healing by admitting they need help, and then connecting them to partners who are proven to help.

The 38 Challenge is a a workout that takes place over 38 minutes. The workout is 38 push-ups, sit-ups, squats, and one lap around the track as many times as you can in 38 minutes. The goal is to understand the suffering that our veterans while going though the 38 minute workout.

Brandt McCartney, President and Executive Director

636-455-4310

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