Press Release
Demati Celebrates the Success of Project Sunrise and Announces New Year-Round Sunrise Yoga Partnership with Hotel Washington
Final Class at Jefferson Memorial on September 11th Marks the Start of a New ‘Wellness Through Service’ Era in D.C.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Since mid-May, global security community executives gathered each Wednesday at sunrise at the Jefferson Memorial, united by a shared commitment to healing and reflection amidst global conflicts. This initiative, known as Project Sunrise and brought to life by Demati, is a powerful testament to the strength and resilience found in collective service. The participants are the heroes in this story - their dedication and willingness to engage in this practice created a unique space of connection and renewal amidst the complexities of their work.
Michael Bergen, a US Marine Veteran and Vice President of Strategic Programs and Partnerships at goTenna, captured this sentiment perfectly:
“Project Sunrise gives us hope. It gives us something to look forward to in a world where the mundane is typical and stress is an ether that flows in and out of our days…This is a process to help people heal and feel like they are part of something greater than themselves.”
As the final class at the memorial concluded on September 11th, the sense of purpose among participants has never felt stronger. Project Sunrise provided more than just a moment of physical exercise; it has become a sanctuary for introspection and renewal. Each sunrise session served as a reminder that, despite the challenges we face, the shared humanity and sense of purpose that bind us together in strength.
Yet, this isn’t an ending, but a new beginning. Inspired by the impact of Project Sunrise, Demati is excited to announce a year-round partnership with Hotel Washington, where these meaningful sunrise classes will continue every Wednesday starting this October. Participants will be able to gather in the hotel’s Sky Room, where the stunning views will complement the transformative experience of Project Sunrise Yoga.
Celebrating the Success of Project Sunrise
The community that has formed over the past three months reflects the power of shared experience and mutual support. Participants from various backgrounds in the global security community have found a renewed sense of purpose and connection through this program.
The success of Project Sunrise is evident in the growing number of participants, the depth of their engagement, and the strong sense of community that blossomed. Global participants from places such as the Royal Netherlands Air Force and British Embassy have come to strengthen our allyship, and the total number of participants grew from 15 to nearly 100 over the past four months. Project Sunrise also takes place in Breda, Netherlands at Valkenberg Park, where servicemembers come together at sunrise and embrace service at sunrise.
The program proved that even in a world overshadowed by stress and conflict, there is space for reflection, connection, and healing. In Erringer Helbling’s words, Demati Founder & CEO, “Service is an exchange between equals, where we strengthen one another. Yoga has surfaced what has long been in my heart and what inspired me to join the military when those Twin Towers went down, creating communities who support and strengthen one another through pain through human connection.”
Vision for the Future – Year-Round Classes with Hotel Washington
Partnership Details: Starting in October, Demati will extend the impact of Project Sunrise through a partnership with Hotel Washington. Every Wednesday, the hotel’s Sky Room, with beautiful views of our capitals’ memorials and monuments, will hold sunrise yoga sessions. This partnership is the next step in Demati’s mission to create spaces where service-minded individuals can connect, reflect, and recharge.
The year-round classes not only sustain the Project Sunrise initiative but also allow for future growth, offering accessible options during the late spring to early fall months. As our yoga practice expands, we are exploring sponsorship opportunities and class packages to ensure the program remains accessible while continuing to deliver high-quality/high-impact experiences. This sustainable model enables them to continue to serve their community while also supporting our long term goals.
Call for Sponsorship and Support
Demati invites local businesses, organizations, and community members to be part of this journey by becoming sponsors or participants. Companies that partner with us will benefit from branding and advertising opportunities while supporting a cause that promotes health, wellness, and community connection.
As we close one chapter and open another, Demati remains committed to fostering spaces for health, wellness, and human connection. We extend our gratitude to everyone who has been a part of Project Sunrise and invite you to join us as we embark on this exciting new journey with Hotel Washington. Together, we can continue the mission of service, resilience, and growth.
Contact Information:
Demati
Ainsley Rowlison
ainsley@demativentures.com
Call to Action:
Follow us on social media for updates, and stay tuned for more information about our upcoming classes at Hotel Washington and beyond! You can book your classes with us on MindBody here.