Kenneth Keitt was born in the Bronx, New York, and raised in Bushkill, Pennsylvania. Kenneth graduated from East Stroudsburg High School North in 2007 and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps shortly after. In 2008, he was assigned to a nine-month combat tour in Iraq as part of the 1st Marine Logistics Group (MLG). After coming off active duty, Kenneth was involved in a tragic rollover vehicle accident that left him paralyzed and in a tiring battle against PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Veteran Affairs (VA) provided premium healthcare services and other resources that helped Kenneth integrate back into society on his own terms.
Once Kenneth left rehab, he realized that the fitness industry lacked useful resources for people with mobility impairments. Referencing his knowledge from military training, Kenneth understood the impact fitness had on a person's physical and mental wellness. He started creating exercises for himself, which motivated him to share the workouts with those in similar situations. A seed was planted.
With the help of Veteran Readiness and Employment (Chapter 31), Kenneth enrolled at Penn State Lehigh Valley to study business in 2017. He joined several organizations, including The Veterans Club, where he held the president title, SULV Business Club, and Collegiate Adaptive Cyclists. On March 23, 2018, Kenneth founded ParaPer4mance Inc. with the mission to improve the quality of life for all individuals with mobility impairments. After graduating college with multiple awards and decorations in 2019, Kenneth was able to organically grow his startup into an actual company, and he has remained president and chief executive officer.
Serving people globally has always been a goal of Kenneth’s, and he believes everyone deserves to become the best version of themselves. Considering the significant barriers to traditional rehabilitation, such as accessibility, transportation, financial constraints, and a sense of community, Kenneth hopes to work with the VA to give veterans an alternative through ParaPer4mance. His motto is “set high goals and crush them.” As a dad, a veteran, and a business owner, Kenneth has uncovered his purpose through his biggest obstacles, and he’s dedicated to helping others do the same.
