Teen Wellness Results are In
Find Your Local YMCA
Find your local YMCA to jump start your healthy lifestyle.
THE RESULTS ARE IN! INTRODUCING AMERICA’S TEEN WELLNESS LEADERS
Katie A.
Anchorage, AK
To support her goal of retaining the number of young girls in her community involved in sports, Katie volunteers at the local basketball camps, as well as various other athletic events for elementary and middle school girls. She promotes the camps throughout the community, and during the camps assists in setting up activities, encouraging participation, leading drills and acting as a positive role model. She also volunteers her time at the local homeless shelter helping the underprivileged.
Anchorage, AK
To support her goal of retaining the number of young girls in her community involved in sports, Katie volunteers at the local basketball camps, as well as various other athletic events for elementary and middle school girls. She promotes the camps throughout the community, and during the camps assists in setting up activities, encouraging participation, leading drills and acting as a positive role model. She also volunteers her time at the local homeless shelter helping the underprivileged.
Jacy A.
Gravette, AR
Jacy created a program called “Block the Sun, Not the Fun!” that educates people on the importance of using sun protection, and what precautions should be taken when out in the sun. She partnered with the makers of Coppertone to procure samples and provide funding for her to use a derma scan machine at her programs. During her presentations she also provides attendees with educational materials on skin cancer and tips for protecting oneself from the sun’s harmful rays.
Gravette, AR
Jacy created a program called “Block the Sun, Not the Fun!” that educates people on the importance of using sun protection, and what precautions should be taken when out in the sun. She partnered with the makers of Coppertone to procure samples and provide funding for her to use a derma scan machine at her programs. During her presentations she also provides attendees with educational materials on skin cancer and tips for protecting oneself from the sun’s harmful rays.
Jeffrey B.
Tucson, AZ
Jeffrey is severally physically disabled, and his discipline and dedication to improving his physical condition inspires all. His perseverance allowed him to participate in the El Tour De Tucson bike race, winning the most determined rider award and showing other individuals who suffer from physical disabilities that their rehabilitation goals are achievable. Jeffrey also champions for the disabled at his school, encouraging school officials to implement purposeful exercise into the curriculum.
Tucson, AZ
Jeffrey is severally physically disabled, and his discipline and dedication to improving his physical condition inspires all. His perseverance allowed him to participate in the El Tour De Tucson bike race, winning the most determined rider award and showing other individuals who suffer from physical disabilities that their rehabilitation goals are achievable. Jeffrey also champions for the disabled at his school, encouraging school officials to implement purposeful exercise into the curriculum.
Samantha L.
San Francisco, CA
Samantha is actively involved in FLEX, an after-school YMCA program designed to raise awareness of the importance of health and fitness in the lives of young people. In the program teens learn the fundamentals of health and fitness, participate in a variety of activities and create a personal wellness program. Samantha is an exceptional role model and serves on the program's Teen Leadership Council, being actively involved in the planning and decision making process for the program.
San Francisco, CA
Samantha is actively involved in FLEX, an after-school YMCA program designed to raise awareness of the importance of health and fitness in the lives of young people. In the program teens learn the fundamentals of health and fitness, participate in a variety of activities and create a personal wellness program. Samantha is an exceptional role model and serves on the program's Teen Leadership Council, being actively involved in the planning and decision making process for the program.
Benjamin M.
Nederland , CO
Benjamin wanted to share his love for cycling with his peers so he helped lead a mountain biking class at his high school. He mentored students, teaching them how to fix various bike problems and develop a learning environment where everyone felt comfortable asking for help. He demonstrated both mechanic and riding techniques in order to help students become proficient riders/racers. Benjamin has also recently worked with school faculty to implement a Nordic ski club team at his college.
Nederland , CO
Benjamin wanted to share his love for cycling with his peers so he helped lead a mountain biking class at his high school. He mentored students, teaching them how to fix various bike problems and develop a learning environment where everyone felt comfortable asking for help. He demonstrated both mechanic and riding techniques in order to help students become proficient riders/racers. Benjamin has also recently worked with school faculty to implement a Nordic ski club team at his college.
Jose C.
Waterbury , CT
Jose is a senior leader of the Teen Leadership Club at the Waterbury YMCA, a position he received through his extensive community service. He has played an integral role in organizing a Teen Summit for the city's mayor; presented at various community drug and alcohol workshops; and trained other members of the Teen Leadership Club so that they can be positive role models to their peers. Jose also leads by example, having overcome difficult obstacles in his own life by making healthy decisions.
Waterbury , CT
Jose is a senior leader of the Teen Leadership Club at the Waterbury YMCA, a position he received through his extensive community service. He has played an integral role in organizing a Teen Summit for the city's mayor; presented at various community drug and alcohol workshops; and trained other members of the Teen Leadership Club so that they can be positive role models to their peers. Jose also leads by example, having overcome difficult obstacles in his own life by making healthy decisions.
Amanda D.
Middletown, DE
Amanda is a mentor through Girls on the Run-Newcastle County, a program that encourages positive emotional, social and physical development among girls ages 8-13. She teaches fourth- and fifth-grade participants about the importance of nutrition and helps them prepare for a 3.1 mile running event. Amanda was able to transform her own health by making better food choices and incorporating activity into her daily schedule, and wants to encourage kids to get up and do something, AND have fun.
Middletown, DE
Amanda is a mentor through Girls on the Run-Newcastle County, a program that encourages positive emotional, social and physical development among girls ages 8-13. She teaches fourth- and fifth-grade participants about the importance of nutrition and helps them prepare for a 3.1 mile running event. Amanda was able to transform her own health by making better food choices and incorporating activity into her daily schedule, and wants to encourage kids to get up and do something, AND have fun.
Stephen S.
Clearwater, FL
Stephen was an aide at Camp COAST, a summer day camp for children on the Autism Spectrum living in Pinellas County. To prepare for the position, he went through CARD, Jr. Lifeguard and CIT training. Stephen worked one-on-one with campers, taking them on field trips, teaching swimming lessons, riding horses, and developing sensory processing and social skills. Additionally he serves as a referee for youth sporting events and was Volunteer of the Year at the Clearwater YMCA.
Clearwater, FL
Stephen was an aide at Camp COAST, a summer day camp for children on the Autism Spectrum living in Pinellas County. To prepare for the position, he went through CARD, Jr. Lifeguard and CIT training. Stephen worked one-on-one with campers, taking them on field trips, teaching swimming lessons, riding horses, and developing sensory processing and social skills. Additionally he serves as a referee for youth sporting events and was Volunteer of the Year at the Clearwater YMCA.
Ellen S.
Thomasville, GA
Ellen developed Girls Running Strong because she wanted other girls to have the opportunity to experience the same positive benefits of distance running that she experienced. The program encourages 4th and 5th grade girls to develop distance running discipline in an effort to improve their health, while also boosting their confidence and self-esteem. With her help, 30 girls trained for, and successfully completed two local 5K races that benefited breast cancer the humane society.
Thomasville, GA
Ellen developed Girls Running Strong because she wanted other girls to have the opportunity to experience the same positive benefits of distance running that she experienced. The program encourages 4th and 5th grade girls to develop distance running discipline in an effort to improve their health, while also boosting their confidence and self-esteem. With her help, 30 girls trained for, and successfully completed two local 5K races that benefited breast cancer the humane society.
Jordan O.
Long Grove, IA
Jordan has created a health and wellness information session that she promotes and presents throughout her school district. She educates students about the daily nutritional guidelines, and provides tips on how the guidelines can be reached both in and outside of school. In addition, she emphasizes the importance of incorporating some form of physical activity into your life everyday for at least 60 minutes. She hopes to reach kids at a young age to encourage on-going healthy decision making.
Long Grove, IA
Jordan has created a health and wellness information session that she promotes and presents throughout her school district. She educates students about the daily nutritional guidelines, and provides tips on how the guidelines can be reached both in and outside of school. In addition, she emphasizes the importance of incorporating some form of physical activity into your life everyday for at least 60 minutes. She hopes to reach kids at a young age to encourage on-going healthy decision making.
Nile B.
Fairbury, IL
Five years ago Nile began a pet-facilitated therapy program at a local county-run nursing home to provide mental stimulation, increased socialization, and to help improve the fine motor skills of the handicapped and elderly residents. On a bi-monthly basis, Nile identifies local breeders who will donate baby puppies and kittens for an afternoon; bathes the animals and clips their nails; and facilitates the interaction between the residents and the animals.
Fairbury, IL
Five years ago Nile began a pet-facilitated therapy program at a local county-run nursing home to provide mental stimulation, increased socialization, and to help improve the fine motor skills of the handicapped and elderly residents. On a bi-monthly basis, Nile identifies local breeders who will donate baby puppies and kittens for an afternoon; bathes the animals and clips their nails; and facilitates the interaction between the residents and the animals.
Steven T.
Indianapolis, IN
Steven is a mentor to special needs students at his high school. Recognizing that many of the participants would benefit greatly if they improved their health, he implemented a physical fitness element into the objectives of the Peer Mentor program. Steven designed and led customized workout plans, and educated the participants about living a healthy lifestyle. As a result, several participants lost weight, became more active in their physical education classes and learned that fitness can be fu
Indianapolis, IN
Steven is a mentor to special needs students at his high school. Recognizing that many of the participants would benefit greatly if they improved their health, he implemented a physical fitness element into the objectives of the Peer Mentor program. Steven designed and led customized workout plans, and educated the participants about living a healthy lifestyle. As a result, several participants lost weight, became more active in their physical education classes and learned that fitness can be fu
Mika D.
Hutchinson, KS
As an avid athlete Mika participates in numerous volunteer activities that encourage other teens to lead healthy lifestyles. Mika coaches youth sports teams and is very active in 4-H. She organizes several service activities for the club throughout the year to raise funds to pay for handicapped children to attend day camp. She also gave a Media and Body Image presentation to a group of 75 teenagers, addressing self-esteem issues, and educating them about proper nutrition and physical fitness.
Hutchinson, KS
As an avid athlete Mika participates in numerous volunteer activities that encourage other teens to lead healthy lifestyles. Mika coaches youth sports teams and is very active in 4-H. She organizes several service activities for the club throughout the year to raise funds to pay for handicapped children to attend day camp. She also gave a Media and Body Image presentation to a group of 75 teenagers, addressing self-esteem issues, and educating them about proper nutrition and physical fitness.
Brittany H.
Caneyville, KY
Brittany is the leader of a community-wide initiative to improve health and wellness. Her program promoted and successfully hosted the first Second Sunday Walk in her community (a state-wide initiative), which generated participation of over 185 community members. Additionally her program offers WE CAN sessions that teach parents and children about better nutrition. Brittany directs project efforts, attends community meetings, promotes events, leads WE CAN sessions and monitors program results.
Caneyville, KY
Brittany is the leader of a community-wide initiative to improve health and wellness. Her program promoted and successfully hosted the first Second Sunday Walk in her community (a state-wide initiative), which generated participation of over 185 community members. Additionally her program offers WE CAN sessions that teach parents and children about better nutrition. Brittany directs project efforts, attends community meetings, promotes events, leads WE CAN sessions and monitors program results.
Shelbi G.
Port Allen, LA
Shelbi initiated the Food and Fitness Board of the West Baton Rouge Parish 4-H, which provides quarterly workshops for children to learn about healthy living. She plans, organizes and presents all the programs. Topics have included: MyPyramid nutritional guidelines, recognizing portion sizes, reading nutrition labels and using healthy alternatives in cooking. Additionally she recruits volunteers, purchases supplies, researches topics, and prepares displays and hand-outs for all the workshops.
Port Allen, LA
Shelbi initiated the Food and Fitness Board of the West Baton Rouge Parish 4-H, which provides quarterly workshops for children to learn about healthy living. She plans, organizes and presents all the programs. Topics have included: MyPyramid nutritional guidelines, recognizing portion sizes, reading nutrition labels and using healthy alternatives in cooking. Additionally she recruits volunteers, purchases supplies, researches topics, and prepares displays and hand-outs for all the workshops.
Ashley C.
Mansfield, MA
Ashley developed the Physical Activity Club, which is a track & field program that presents nutrition and physical activity in a fun and exciting way to overweight and/or physically inactive boys and girls ages 9-14. As founder and volunteer coach, Ashley inspires children to enjoy sport for fun, wellness, and satisfaction. Competition is an option not a requirement. As a PAC instructor Ashley uses her skills and knowledge to encourage children to make healthier lifestyle choices.
Mansfield, MA
Ashley developed the Physical Activity Club, which is a track & field program that presents nutrition and physical activity in a fun and exciting way to overweight and/or physically inactive boys and girls ages 9-14. As founder and volunteer coach, Ashley inspires children to enjoy sport for fun, wellness, and satisfaction. Competition is an option not a requirement. As a PAC instructor Ashley uses her skills and knowledge to encourage children to make healthier lifestyle choices.
Teresa Y.
Ellicott City, MD
Teresa is bilingual and was motivated to help elementary students acquire English skills more quickly so she founded the Ellicott City ESOL Tutors Program. The program provides homework and reading assistance to English Language Learners in addition to providing social support and language role models to students in at-risk academic groups. In addition to serving as a tutor, Teresa advertised the program at her high school to recruit other volunteers and provided them with program training.
Ellicott City, MD
Teresa is bilingual and was motivated to help elementary students acquire English skills more quickly so she founded the Ellicott City ESOL Tutors Program. The program provides homework and reading assistance to English Language Learners in addition to providing social support and language role models to students in at-risk academic groups. In addition to serving as a tutor, Teresa advertised the program at her high school to recruit other volunteers and provided them with program training.
Shannon F.
Saco, ME
Shannon is a senior member of Project Aware. Through interactive skits and films, the teen volunteers educate young people about the dangers of substance abuse and harmful behaviors. She helps write the skits, acts in the presentations, and acts as a spokesperson for the group. The group has performed for educators, law enforcement personnel, political leaders, health professionals and at schools throughout Maine. Their first film, “Falling”, is used nationally as a teaching tool.
Saco, ME
Shannon is a senior member of Project Aware. Through interactive skits and films, the teen volunteers educate young people about the dangers of substance abuse and harmful behaviors. She helps write the skits, acts in the presentations, and acts as a spokesperson for the group. The group has performed for educators, law enforcement personnel, political leaders, health professionals and at schools throughout Maine. Their first film, “Falling”, is used nationally as a teaching tool.
Katelyn P.
Springport, MI
Katelyn helped lead a summer day camp for elementary aged students to learn about the importance of nutrition and physical activity through gardening and agriculture. The goals of the program were to increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and nonfat or low-fat milk or dairy products, increase participation in a physically active lifestyle, and promote the need to balance caloric intake from food and beverages with calories expended.
Springport, MI
Katelyn helped lead a summer day camp for elementary aged students to learn about the importance of nutrition and physical activity through gardening and agriculture. The goals of the program were to increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and nonfat or low-fat milk or dairy products, increase participation in a physically active lifestyle, and promote the need to balance caloric intake from food and beverages with calories expended.
Abigail H.
Shoreview, MN
Abigail has created, organized, promoted and co-led four summer sports camps for 3-to 9-year-old children. The camps aim to get the kids active and confident in playing sports. Kicking Kids Soccer Camp, Sports and Arts Camp, Mini Mustangs Sports Camp and Olympic Gold Sports Camp all taught campers the fundamentals of various sports, good sportsmanship, and the benefits of staying active. Because of the success of her first camp, Abigail created additional camps to meet the increased demand.
Shoreview, MN
Abigail has created, organized, promoted and co-led four summer sports camps for 3-to 9-year-old children. The camps aim to get the kids active and confident in playing sports. Kicking Kids Soccer Camp, Sports and Arts Camp, Mini Mustangs Sports Camp and Olympic Gold Sports Camp all taught campers the fundamentals of various sports, good sportsmanship, and the benefits of staying active. Because of the success of her first camp, Abigail created additional camps to meet the increased demand.
Bryce F.
Saint Joseph, MO
Bryce recently finished his BSA Eagle Scout Project where his goal was to organize a drive to collect personal hygiene items and shoes for the homeless children in the Saint Joseph Public School District. He led the entire effort: meeting with district officials, contacting organizations to ask for donations, securing advertising, and recruiting helpers. The success of this drive was widespread. In all he received more than 200 pairs of shoes and and thousands of personal hygiene products.
Saint Joseph, MO
Bryce recently finished his BSA Eagle Scout Project where his goal was to organize a drive to collect personal hygiene items and shoes for the homeless children in the Saint Joseph Public School District. He led the entire effort: meeting with district officials, contacting organizations to ask for donations, securing advertising, and recruiting helpers. The success of this drive was widespread. In all he received more than 200 pairs of shoes and and thousands of personal hygiene products.
Morgan Lindsey B.
Brandon, MS
Morgan created a program, “The Importance of Physical Activity and Nutrition”, that teaches young children the importance of a healthy lifestyle. The goal of the program is to instill good habits at a young age in an effort to prevent obesity. To create her program, Morgan worked with the school health administrator to research age-appropriate materials and become more aware of the state health initiatives. As part of her senior project she will present the program at local elementary schools.
Brandon, MS
Morgan created a program, “The Importance of Physical Activity and Nutrition”, that teaches young children the importance of a healthy lifestyle. The goal of the program is to instill good habits at a young age in an effort to prevent obesity. To create her program, Morgan worked with the school health administrator to research age-appropriate materials and become more aware of the state health initiatives. As part of her senior project she will present the program at local elementary schools.
Ashley C.
Billings, MT
Ashley has played an integral role in creating the first junior multi-sport team in her state. The team will be bringing together athletes with varying abilities and interests, and in a combined effort they begin competing next spring in competitions ranging from triathlons, duathalons, aquathons, mountain biking, road races, swimming, running, Special Olympics and Para-Olympics. She currently organizes training for teens who will be competing on the team.
Billings, MT
Ashley has played an integral role in creating the first junior multi-sport team in her state. The team will be bringing together athletes with varying abilities and interests, and in a combined effort they begin competing next spring in competitions ranging from triathlons, duathalons, aquathons, mountain biking, road races, swimming, running, Special Olympics and Para-Olympics. She currently organizes training for teens who will be competing on the team.
Shayla G.
Matthews, NC
Shayla created a program called "A Step Towards Self Esteem", based on her belief that an individual can improve his/her self-esteem by becoming involved in their community. Shayla has presented the concept to several community organizations, and works directly with girls between 8 -15-years-old, encouraging them to accept themselves and become positive role-models. Shayla also started “Klothes 4 Kids”, a community-wide program that collects clothes and sends them to kids in foreign countries.
Matthews, NC
Shayla created a program called "A Step Towards Self Esteem", based on her belief that an individual can improve his/her self-esteem by becoming involved in their community. Shayla has presented the concept to several community organizations, and works directly with girls between 8 -15-years-old, encouraging them to accept themselves and become positive role-models. Shayla also started “Klothes 4 Kids”, a community-wide program that collects clothes and sends them to kids in foreign countries.
Ali K.
Grand Forks, ND
Ali has a mild form of spina bifida and believes that “every kid should be able to have fun and feel like they belong”. She has spent the last year leading a campaign to build a playground in her community that can be enjoyed by children with disabilities. Already a section has been built for older children and a toddler section will be unveiled next spring. Ali has been the spokesperson for the project, receiving grants and donations through her speaking engagments at various community clubs.
Grand Forks, ND
Ali has a mild form of spina bifida and believes that “every kid should be able to have fun and feel like they belong”. She has spent the last year leading a campaign to build a playground in her community that can be enjoyed by children with disabilities. Already a section has been built for older children and a toddler section will be unveiled next spring. Ali has been the spokesperson for the project, receiving grants and donations through her speaking engagments at various community clubs.
Andrea E.
Omaha, NE
Andrea initiated the "Hello Human Health Club" in her high school. The club teaches students the importance of balancing nutrition, exercise, and emotional well-being through health-related documentaries, speakers, demonstrations, nutrition games, exercising, cooking demonstrations, field trips and iMovie, a wellness video produced by Andrea. The club is currently working with school lunch officials to promote healthier foods and post the nutrition facts in the cafeteria.
Omaha, NE
Andrea initiated the "Hello Human Health Club" in her high school. The club teaches students the importance of balancing nutrition, exercise, and emotional well-being through health-related documentaries, speakers, demonstrations, nutrition games, exercising, cooking demonstrations, field trips and iMovie, a wellness video produced by Andrea. The club is currently working with school lunch officials to promote healthier foods and post the nutrition facts in the cafeteria.
Thomas (TJ) L.
Nashua, NH
TJ has been a volunteer for the Special Olympics Swim Team at the Merrimack YMCA for the past year. He works one-on-one on a weekly basis with kids facing physical or developmental disabilities, helping them with swimming basics and teaching new strokes to those training for Special Olympics competitions. This wellness program allows Special Olympians to improve their cardiovascular health, strength and flexibility, and is valuable therapy both physically and mentally for disabled children.
Nashua, NH
TJ has been a volunteer for the Special Olympics Swim Team at the Merrimack YMCA for the past year. He works one-on-one on a weekly basis with kids facing physical or developmental disabilities, helping them with swimming basics and teaching new strokes to those training for Special Olympics competitions. This wellness program allows Special Olympians to improve their cardiovascular health, strength and flexibility, and is valuable therapy both physically and mentally for disabled children.
Tim D.
Middletown, NJ
Tim is the Fitness Coach for his community’s youth football team, and works with the overweight players to help them meet the weight limit by educating them on proper nutrition and exercise. Through his own weight loss successes, Tim serves as a role model for the players, and helps contribute to the program’s mission of building healthy minds and bodies by creating customized diet and fitness plans to help improve the player’s health.
Middletown, NJ
Tim is the Fitness Coach for his community’s youth football team, and works with the overweight players to help them meet the weight limit by educating them on proper nutrition and exercise. Through his own weight loss successes, Tim serves as a role model for the players, and helps contribute to the program’s mission of building healthy minds and bodies by creating customized diet and fitness plans to help improve the player’s health.
Elizabeth B.
RENO, NV
Volunteering has always been an important aspect of Lizzy’s life. After reading an article about the low rate of volunteerism in her community, Lizzy created and implemented the “Mother & Daughter Day of Service” for members of her Girl Scout troop and community. She contacted 25 organizations in her community to find out what volunteer opportunities were available, created volunteer information packets, distributed the packets to members of her troop and helped facilitate volunteer projects.
RENO, NV
Volunteering has always been an important aspect of Lizzy’s life. After reading an article about the low rate of volunteerism in her community, Lizzy created and implemented the “Mother & Daughter Day of Service” for members of her Girl Scout troop and community. She contacted 25 organizations in her community to find out what volunteer opportunities were available, created volunteer information packets, distributed the packets to members of her troop and helped facilitate volunteer projects.
Christina J.
Bronx, NY
Christina is the founder and project director for “Get Active, Get Healthy”, a program focused on addressing childhood obesity. The program teaches inner city teens to respect each other and their differences. Additionally, Christina brings in professionals to provide free exercise programs and educational seminars on nutrition and physical activity. She was also a coordinator for the Young Women’s Day Health and Fitness Expo, organizing event setup and coordinating the performances.
Bronx, NY
Christina is the founder and project director for “Get Active, Get Healthy”, a program focused on addressing childhood obesity. The program teaches inner city teens to respect each other and their differences. Additionally, Christina brings in professionals to provide free exercise programs and educational seminars on nutrition and physical activity. She was also a coordinator for the Young Women’s Day Health and Fitness Expo, organizing event setup and coordinating the performances.
Kuntina S.
Galloway, OH
As President of her YMCA's Leaders Club, Tina advocates abstinence from drugs and alcohol among her peers by promoting alternative options, such as YMCA programs. Tina promotes the People Helping People scholarship so that all teens, regardless of their economic backgrounds, have the ability to become a YMCA member. Tina is also a KnowHow2Go ambassador, speaking to students about the steps to take to get to college, and is working with her school administration to get a Youth in Government prog
Galloway, OH
As President of her YMCA's Leaders Club, Tina advocates abstinence from drugs and alcohol among her peers by promoting alternative options, such as YMCA programs. Tina promotes the People Helping People scholarship so that all teens, regardless of their economic backgrounds, have the ability to become a YMCA member. Tina is also a KnowHow2Go ambassador, speaking to students about the steps to take to get to college, and is working with her school administration to get a Youth in Government prog
Rebecca H.
Norman, OK
Rebecca is the Director of Community Services for Friends Along the Path, a non-profit that promotes well being by offering free meditation classes to the community; hosting and organizing free monthly talks and workshops on wellness related topics; and hosting community service projects. In her director role, she manages the teams, fundraising and advertising for all service projects. Rebecca also acquired her teaching certificate and is a volunteer teacher for the beginning meditation class.
Norman, OK
Rebecca is the Director of Community Services for Friends Along the Path, a non-profit that promotes well being by offering free meditation classes to the community; hosting and organizing free monthly talks and workshops on wellness related topics; and hosting community service projects. In her director role, she manages the teams, fundraising and advertising for all service projects. Rebecca also acquired her teaching certificate and is a volunteer teacher for the beginning meditation class.
Dana B.
Portland, OR
Dana strives to be a facilitator of change. To increase awareness of domestic violence and the importance of healthy relationships, Dana gives presentations at middle and high schools through the Oregon Jewish Community Youth Foundation’s Teen Ambassador Program. Additionally, she created and implemented a community fundraiser for a volunteer-run clinic in Yushu, Tibet. For the event, Dana organized and scripted a presentation on her volunteer trip to the clinic. Her efforts raised $8000.
Portland, OR
Dana strives to be a facilitator of change. To increase awareness of domestic violence and the importance of healthy relationships, Dana gives presentations at middle and high schools through the Oregon Jewish Community Youth Foundation’s Teen Ambassador Program. Additionally, she created and implemented a community fundraiser for a volunteer-run clinic in Yushu, Tibet. For the event, Dana organized and scripted a presentation on her volunteer trip to the clinic. Her efforts raised $8000.
Christopher R.
Beaver Falls, PA
Chris developed and organized three first-ever community soccer clinics for children in Beaver County. He worked with the Blackhawk Area Soccer Association to create the clinic content, and organized a volunteer coaching team. As Clinic Director, Chris supervised both participants and coaches. The clinics were designed for experienced and new players, and consisted of various drills and instruction. In addition, Chris built and painted 10 8-foot field benches for the soccer field.
Beaver Falls, PA
Chris developed and organized three first-ever community soccer clinics for children in Beaver County. He worked with the Blackhawk Area Soccer Association to create the clinic content, and organized a volunteer coaching team. As Clinic Director, Chris supervised both participants and coaches. The clinics were designed for experienced and new players, and consisted of various drills and instruction. In addition, Chris built and painted 10 8-foot field benches for the soccer field.
Richardson J.
Cranston, RI
Richardson created an afterschool program that encourages Cranston teens to get involved in physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day. The program utilizes the various classes/programs at the local YMCA. He helped members identify personal goals and developed charts to track their weekly progress. Additionally, Richardson provides nutrition education on an on-going basis, organizes a healthy snack each week and created a recipe book for members to use at home.
Cranston, RI
Richardson created an afterschool program that encourages Cranston teens to get involved in physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day. The program utilizes the various classes/programs at the local YMCA. He helped members identify personal goals and developed charts to track their weekly progress. Additionally, Richardson provides nutrition education on an on-going basis, organizes a healthy snack each week and created a recipe book for members to use at home.
Ashleigh W.
Easley, SC
Ashleigh created a physical fitness program titled “Physically Fit, You’re It”. She teaches her program to special needs students at Upstate Carolina Dance Center; to children ages 8-11 at a local elementary school; and to senior citizens at a local nursing home. Ashleigh has provided over 600 hours of community service through her efforts. She provides handouts to groups she works with to help teach individuals about proper nutrition and exercise so they can take control of their own fitness.
Easley, SC
Ashleigh created a physical fitness program titled “Physically Fit, You’re It”. She teaches her program to special needs students at Upstate Carolina Dance Center; to children ages 8-11 at a local elementary school; and to senior citizens at a local nursing home. Ashleigh has provided over 600 hours of community service through her efforts. She provides handouts to groups she works with to help teach individuals about proper nutrition and exercise so they can take control of their own fitness.
Jenna G.
Menno, SD
Jenna has developed age-appropriate curriculum that promotes physical fitness, and presents it in 72 classrooms in the Menno Public School District. She teaches children the importance being active and healthy at a young age so that they develop positive habits that they’ll carry into adulthood. She also creates a wellness challenge for each class, and assigns points to each activity to encourage kids to engage in activity rather than remain sedentary.
Menno, SD
Jenna has developed age-appropriate curriculum that promotes physical fitness, and presents it in 72 classrooms in the Menno Public School District. She teaches children the importance being active and healthy at a young age so that they develop positive habits that they’ll carry into adulthood. She also creates a wellness challenge for each class, and assigns points to each activity to encourage kids to engage in activity rather than remain sedentary.
Steven H.
Memphis , TN
Steven leads the Get Moving Sessions in conjunction with the Black Achievers Program at his YMCA. In this role he develops and implements creative activities that engage and motivate teens to increase their daily physical activity. He has successfully grown the participant numbers and helped members make healthy lifestyle changes. Steven volunteered for the position because he saw a need to reverse the rising obesity rates among his peers. He is also President of the Health Advisory Committee.
Memphis , TN
Steven leads the Get Moving Sessions in conjunction with the Black Achievers Program at his YMCA. In this role he develops and implements creative activities that engage and motivate teens to increase their daily physical activity. He has successfully grown the participant numbers and helped members make healthy lifestyle changes. Steven volunteered for the position because he saw a need to reverse the rising obesity rates among his peers. He is also President of the Health Advisory Committee.
Reilly J.
Plano, TX
Reilly teaches girls the importance of physical and mental health through her dance classes and self-produced exercise video. Reilly is founder and instructor of a weekly dance class called "Reilly' Rockettes” that teaches 4th and 5th graders simple aerobic exercises and other various forms of dance. The last ten minutes of class is devoted to discussions on basic nutrition and making healthy food choices. She also produced an exercise video called “Reilly's Rules: Healthy Mind, Healthy Body".
Plano, TX
Reilly teaches girls the importance of physical and mental health through her dance classes and self-produced exercise video. Reilly is founder and instructor of a weekly dance class called "Reilly' Rockettes” that teaches 4th and 5th graders simple aerobic exercises and other various forms of dance. The last ten minutes of class is devoted to discussions on basic nutrition and making healthy food choices. She also produced an exercise video called “Reilly's Rules: Healthy Mind, Healthy Body".
Miranda H.
Glen Allen, VA
Passionate about making our planet a better place to live, Miranda created a program called “Go Green Girl”. The program raises awareness about individuals’ carbon footprints and provides solutions for reducing society’s negative impact on the planet. Miranda teaches her program to Girl Scout troops in her area, emphasizing the “recycle, reuse and reduce” motto. Through her efforts, Miranda’s program has recycled more than 600 pounds of materials.
Glen Allen, VA
Passionate about making our planet a better place to live, Miranda created a program called “Go Green Girl”. The program raises awareness about individuals’ carbon footprints and provides solutions for reducing society’s negative impact on the planet. Miranda teaches her program to Girl Scout troops in her area, emphasizing the “recycle, reuse and reduce” motto. Through her efforts, Miranda’s program has recycled more than 600 pounds of materials.
Anna S.
Trout Lake , WA
Anna created, organized and led a summer soccer camp for kids in her community that was geared towards improving the confidence and wellness of the participants. Thirty children participated in the two-hour camp daily, focusing on individual skills as well as team building. Because of its popularity, she’ll be repeating the camp next summer. Anna is also organizing a Field Day where elementary through high school students will spend the half a day participating in a mini track-and-field meet.
Trout Lake , WA
Anna created, organized and led a summer soccer camp for kids in her community that was geared towards improving the confidence and wellness of the participants. Thirty children participated in the two-hour camp daily, focusing on individual skills as well as team building. Because of its popularity, she’ll be repeating the camp next summer. Anna is also organizing a Field Day where elementary through high school students will spend the half a day participating in a mini track-and-field meet.
Natanya O.
Milwaukee, WI
Natanya is actively involved in volunteer efforts at the John C. Cudahy YMCA that better her community. She is a member of the Teen Safe Place Program where she helps lead the Warmer Winters winterization efforts. She was on the Halloween Party organizing committee and volunteers at the monthly movie night. Natanya is a mentor to younger girls through the Girls Night Out Program. She is also a member of the Underground, which is a teen activist group that focuses on community improvement.
Milwaukee, WI
Natanya is actively involved in volunteer efforts at the John C. Cudahy YMCA that better her community. She is a member of the Teen Safe Place Program where she helps lead the Warmer Winters winterization efforts. She was on the Halloween Party organizing committee and volunteers at the monthly movie night. Natanya is a mentor to younger girls through the Girls Night Out Program. She is also a member of the Underground, which is a teen activist group that focuses on community improvement.
Michelle S.
Milton, WV
Due to the alarmingly high obesity rate in her state, Michelle and other members of her congregation created wellness curriculum that has been implemented into the Sunday school program at her church. Activities that involve physical fitness are taught every class and it’s their goal to eventually involve all parish members in church-led physical activities after mass on Sundays. Michelle also volunteers at the Vacation Bible School, helping teach good habits to the children.
Milton, WV
Due to the alarmingly high obesity rate in her state, Michelle and other members of her congregation created wellness curriculum that has been implemented into the Sunday school program at her church. Activities that involve physical fitness are taught every class and it’s their goal to eventually involve all parish members in church-led physical activities after mass on Sundays. Michelle also volunteers at the Vacation Bible School, helping teach good habits to the children.
Joe B.
Cheyenne, WY
Because many young athletes do not maintain their fitness during the off-season, Joe promotes the importance of maintaining one’s physical fitness year round, especially among his peers who participate on sports teams. He helped create cardio and weight training plans for the wrestling team, but encourages students who are not part of the team to get involved as well. His efforts have encouraged new members to join the team.
Cheyenne, WY
Because many young athletes do not maintain their fitness during the off-season, Joe promotes the importance of maintaining one’s physical fitness year round, especially among his peers who participate on sports teams. He helped create cardio and weight training plans for the wrestling team, but encourages students who are not part of the team to get involved as well. His efforts have encouraged new members to join the team.