At The Jenn Smira Team, we fight to make the world around us a better place — literally. Case in point: Elvin Merlo, one of our very own agents, has been selected to fight in the Haymakers for The Hope Beltway Brawl this fall. On November 4th, Elvin will compete in a 3 round amateur boxing match to raise funds for cancer research.

A little bit about H4H

Haymakers for Hope is an official 501(c)(3) charity organization that gives you the opportunity to fight back against cancer. They help others like Elvin train for — and compete in — a sanctioned charity boxing event to raise funds for cancer research, care, awareness, and survivorship. To prepare for each event, they combine the efforts of local boxing gyms and volunteers, and match each contestant up with someone of a similar experience level (even if that experience level is “none”).

The H4H History

In 2009, founders Andrew Myerson and Julie Anne Kelly participated in the New York City Golden Gloves, one of the most highly regarded amateur tournaments in the US. They decided that competing against the city’s best boxers wasn’t enough, and decided to raise money for cancer research instead. This planted the seeds for Haymakers for Hope. Today, H4H gives everyday people the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete in their first sanctioned boxing event. The experience is impactful, challenging, and life-changing, and the march towards a cure will continue long after the last match of the night. Not every fight ends at the bell. Visit the H4H website here.

Why Elvin Fights

Earlier this year, Elvin’s dear friend, John David Black, passed away after a nearly seven-year battle with brain cancer. He was only 33 years old and left behind his wife, Jen, and two beautiful children.

While it’s difficult to capture John in just a few words, the ones that might do it best are perhaps “I want to be like John when I grow up,” a phrase that John Sr. always said of his son, and a sentiment his mom, Jeanine, and his siblings, Evan, and Leah would all be quick to echo.

John was a force. He loved his family and friends above all else, and radiated a quiet resolve that gave comfort to those around him. He faced adversity with unflappable courage and never missed an opportunity to elicit a smile with his wry humor, no matter the hardship he faced.

John truly embodied the warrior spirit, which is why Elvin knew there was only one way to honor him: to fight. That’s why on November 4th, he’ll step into the boxing ring and join 27 other fighters for a 3-round sanctioned boxing event while raising money for cancer research, care, awareness, and survivorship.

➤ Click here to learn more about Elvin Merlo

Fundraising Specifics

Elvin is raising money for Dr. John Laterra’s research at John’s Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center. Dr. Laterra oversaw John’s treatment, and is internationally recognized for his clinical expertise and research on mechanisms of brain tumor malignancy.

Compass Cares

Compass Cares empowers agents and employees alike to support meaningful causes right where it counts most: at home. Compass has already pledged $15,000 to support Elvin in his fight against cancer.

➤ Click here for more information on Compass Cares

Ready to make your donation? Visit Elvin’s Haymakers For Hope Page today.