Embrace The First Step!

Are you looking to make a difference in the world? Embrace the power of our charitable organizations! By joining Embrace The First Step, you are making a positive impact on multiple non-profits throughout Central Ohio. We work tirelessly to improve the lives of people in need using our C.A.V.S. concept, and your generous donations go directly to support their initiatives.

Our CEO, Michael Roderick

“I am thrilled about Embrace The First Step because we make a real difference in real people’s lives. The first step towards creating a positive impact in society is to embrace the idea of giving back. Embrace The First Step is instrumental in bringing people together to support non-profits, whether it’s helping the less fortunate, fighting for our veterans, or protecting our children. These organizations rely on fundraising efforts to sustain their operations and achieve their goals. It’s heartening to see how people come together to support these efforts and make a meaningful difference. Join us in supporting these charitable organizations, raising awareness, and educating the public, to bring about real change!”

Learn More

Since 2013

Our Mission

To identify and organize athletic events for the benefit of deserving charities, while motivating individuals to get involved and create new fundraising opportunities by helping them not only TAKE the first step…but embrace it!

Join Our Mission!

“The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.”

Chauncey Depew

“Embrace the First Step is a great partner. We share a commitment to encouraging people to take action. Climbing Mount Rainier with Mike and the other team members was an incredible experience. Rainier challenges you physically and mentally, but climbing with a group of like minded and committed individuals was inspiring. The camaraderie and desire to support See Kids Dream the other chosen charities helped push us forward and enjoy each step up the mountain.’

Bill Grindle
Co-Founder, See Kids Dream

“Byron Saunders Foundation is so thankful for Mike Roderick and Embrace The First Step. They have supported Byron Saunders Foundation through monetary donations, awareness, volunteering, etc. Without organizations like ETFS, Byron Saunders Foundation would not be able to support as many families as we do. We are so grateful for all the wonderful work ETFS does.”

Brian Wollenberg
President, Byron Saunders Foundation

“Mike is a driving force. His passion, desire, talent, and organizational skills are priceless. If you are looking to raise funds for an existing charity, organization or host an event for someone in need, he is the guy! Truly, a world-class human!”

Rob Fletcher

120

Events

16

Climbers

355

Donations

Our Next Event

EmbraceTheFirstStep.Org is thrilled to announce our first challenge event! Following in the footsteps of Hazard Stevens and P.B. Van Trump, the first to scale Mt. Rainier in 1870, eight amazing athletes will be “Taking It To The Top” to benefit eight deserving charities. Our goal is to raise $80,000, which will allow us to donate $10,000 per charity, which will be our organization’s First Step…

Find Out More...