This year, JLNVB teamed with its Community Partner Network hosted the first annual Healthy Start Hampton Roads. Held in the fall, it was a fun and interactive event. The 120 parents and children in attendance had a wonderful time and took away some quality information on how to lead healthy lifestyles. Highlights of the day included interactive working out routines; tug-of-war with the Kaz, the World’s Strongest Man; and a cooking demonstration with Farm Fresh & Young Chefs Academy. At the close of the event, Kaz pulled a school bus to roll out a ONE BILLION step counting campaign for Hampton Roads families.
WAVY 10 Operation School Supplies We partnered with WAVY for a second year by collecting school supplies to ensure children in Hampton Roads had adequate school supplies to begin school year. Members assisted in collecting supplies from 25 drop-off sites and participated in several ‘Stuff the Bus’ events. School supplies are donated to local schools in Hampton Roads.
In 2008, members assisted in FoodBank’s Kid’s Cafe program and facilitate “Energize with Exercise” lesson at four locations. JL also purchased 2,000 jump ropes: one for each child served by the Kid’s Café program. In 2009 and going forward, we are excited to be assisting with the FoodBank’s new Backpack program. This program distributes well balance breakfast and lunch items to less privileged children over school weekends and holidays. The items are smartly disguised in a backpack for distribution at local schools.
Girls on the Run is a nationally successful life-changing character development program. The local 12-week non-competitive program combines physical activity (running/walking) and experiential learning through a nationally recognized psychology-based curriculum. At the end of the 12-week program, all local girls join together to participate in a 5K event. JL has provided volunteer support for local Girls on the Run races. In the spring, we will be sponsoring a middle school team and providing running attire for students that are unable to afford these items.
CHKD Pediatric Healthy You Weight Management Program- In 2008, JL provided scholarship funding and helped launch a 10-week mentoring program with elementary and middle school aged students. Healthy You is the only program of its kind in Hampton Roads and offers an approach to better living that incorporates diet, exercise, and psychosocial intervention. Mentoring these children can be challenging. Some of them still do not want to admit that they are not in control of their weight problem. Our League mentors, however, are making a direct impact on a child’s decision to improve their life. We have provided additional volunteer support with administrative needs.
American Diabetes Association Tour de Cure & Step Out – For the past two years, JLNVB has played a support role for both the Tour de Cure and & Step Out event. We also provided funding support for an informational booth in the wellness center at Tour de Cure.
YMCA Healthy Kids Day – In 2008, JLNVB provided funding and volunteer support for YMCA two locations. Healthy Kids Day, a national community outreach event hosted by YMCAs each spring, promotes healthy lifestyles for kids and families. Program focuses on how fitness can be fun and introduces kids to an array of YMCA programs that teach them healthy behaviors.
