Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/934743
5 CRHEALTHCARE.ORG With both Girls on the Run and STRIDE, the nationally recognized programs that will begin in select elementary schools this spring, volunteer coaches prepare students to participate in a 5K running event. In addition to the physical benefits of the programs, the mentors and participants also spend time on character-building components of the curriculum. Specifically, Girls on the Run seeks to: • Recognize power and responsibility to be intentional in decision-making • Embrace differences and find strength in connectedness • Express joy, optimism and gratitude through words, thoughts and actions • Nurture physical, emotional and spiritual health • Lead with an open heart and assume positive intent • Stand up for oneself and others And STRIDE, which seeks to encourage boys, promotes: Success, Teamwork, Respect, Inspiration, Determination and Excellence in character. "Through positive interaction with adults, the kids participating in these programs will have the chance to build character and feel good about themselves," says Dick Jones, president and chief executive officer of the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina."Volunteer leaders are essential to the success of these initiatives, and we are thankful for everyone who has given their time and talents to help support the health of our young people." EMBRACING A NATURAL RESOURCE In addition to the running programs, the YMCA also plans to offer swimming classes for children in kindergarten through second grade. "A large percentage of our population doesn't know how to swim," Cole says. "This program will safely introduce people to a fun activity that they can enjoy throughout the summer." The long-term goal is to offer lessons for all ages so that the community is equipped to enjoy the North Carolina coast. SETTING THE STAGE FOR THE FUTURE Guided by the priorities identified in the Needs Assessment, the Columbus County YMCA Steering Committee, whose stakeholders include leaders from CRHS, the local government and the North Carolina Cooperative Extension, will continue to look for opportunities to offer YMCA programs to people of all ages in the community. "Based on the Needs Assessment, we know that Columbus County has high rates of cardiovascular issues, diabetes and obesity," Cole says. "Seeing that information in black and white was validation for us to offer an array of YMCA programs here and to move toward establishing a permanent YMCA in our community." To learn more about Girls on the Run and STRIDE, visit nckidsrun.org. To volunteer with other YMCA initiatives in Columbus County, email Lauren Cole at lagcole88@gmail.com or Dick Jones at dick.jones@ymcasenc.org. "People often think about the YMCA as being a place to exercise, learn to swim or play basketball. But the organization is also about the value of social interaction. As we continue to introduce new programs, we are building a vital sense of fellowship in this community." —DICK JONES, PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF THE YMCA OF SOUTHEASTERN NORTH CAROLINA More an a Hpital