GREEN COVE SPRINGS — Getting active, raising funds and honoring the memory of their son will be the goal of the Shepherd family on July 19.

The family will be hosting their third annual Memorial Workout Day and Fundraising event.

Held at Green Cove CrossFit — located at 1525 Virgils Way — the event invites guests to come out and enjoy an early-morning exercise, suitable for all ages and in support of the Jacksonville-based organization Dreams Come True.

Jacquelyn Shepherd said the event is dedicated to her 9-year-old son Levi, who passed away back in 2022. Levi had a rare genetic syndrome called IHPRF and Lennox-Gastaut Epilepsy.

“He was so happy. He loved music. He loved chewing on things, but he loved giving kisses and hugs,” she said. “He just made me who I am today.”

After his passing, Jacquelyn said CrossFit became part of her healing journey. Now she’s aiming to help others. 

All proceeds from the event will go towards Dreams Come True. The nonprofit aims to bring hope and joy to children battling life-threatening medical conditions.

Jacquelyn said the organization holds a special place in her heart, as Levi received his own dream trip to Disney World, SeaWorld and Universal Studios Orlando in 2019.

“To be able to also know that we're going to be able to give those same memories to another family with their child is just truly unexplainable,” she said. 

Check in begins at 9 a.m. while the workout will begin at 10 a.m. Participation is $20.

 In addition to fitness, attendees can look forward to a bounce house for children, gourmet coffee from Jacqui’s Java and baked goods from Clucker Wyatt’s Roadside Stand. 

The Shepherd’s Sage will be offering free samples of all-natural bath salts and elderberry products. 

Guests can also take part in a raffle. Some items that will be given away are an Olympic barbell, a flat workout bench, a kettlebell and a Yeti bucket filled with summer and fishing items.

Official registration ends on July 17, however Jacquelyn said guests are still able to register at the event. 

Donations are accepted for those not able to attend. To make a donation, register or purchase raffle tickets, visit https://dreamscometrue.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/2025CrossfitforDreamsComeTrue.