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Phoenix Youth Giv'erDate: 05/18/07 Author: HALIFAX, Nova Scotia, May 18, 2007 - Ten youth from Phoenix Youth Programs will take part in the Rogers 5K Run/Walk as part of the Blue Nose International Marathon on Sunday, May 20, 2007 in Halifax. The group started training at the end of March through an eight week 'Learn to Run" program supervised by volunteer trainer Kharim Schliewnski. In partnership with Brooks footwear, Aerobics First donated running shoes and other sports gear for all of the participants so they would be equipped for success and scholarships through the YMCA Strong Kids Program covered the registration fee. "These young people have been so motivated by this new experience and the support that they have received from Phoenix staff and community partners that they have been meeting on their own to do additional training in preparation for the upcoming run," said Brigid Savage, Director of Development for Phoenix Youth Programs. Crystal is one of the runners and says she had no previous experience with exercise. "This has positively changed my life," she says. "I've lost 10 pounds, finally have a shape and my legs are smaller. Before I could only run from one power pole to another. Now I can run one kilometer or more." Through the program she has built endurance and says that she now has more energy than ever during the day. She even runs home after dropping her son off at day care. As for the 5K, Crystal says, "My goal is to get across the finish line - running, walking, crawling, whatever it takes, I am going to finish the race." Training for the Blue Nose has shown Crystal first-hand the benefits of exercise and she has now made a commitment to herself to continue running for her health. Doctors Nova Scotia first approached Phoenix staff with the idea of starting a running program for youth as part of its 'Youth Running for Fun' Program. The program is fully funded by Doctors Nova Scotia - primarily for elementary and junior high schools across Nova Scotia and encourages young people to get involved in promoting healthy lifestyles. Now three years running, the program is also a good fit with at-risk youth, providing an opportunity for personal growth and development. "Many at-risk youth may not have the chance to feel the positive benefits that fitness can provide," says Kerry Copeland, Doctors Nova Scotia Program Coordinator and Phoenix Youth Programs Board member. "Running gives youth the opportunity to feel good about themselves and to see how fitness can impact their lives in a positive way. Physicians want to help all Nova Scotians to be healthy and the Youth Running for Fun Program helps make that happen." Phoenix Youth Programs offers a continuum of care through seven program that support at-risk and homeless youth between the ages of 16 and 24 years. These resilient and courageous youth have experienced such trauma as neglect, abuse, family breakdown and mental health issues. When they come to the Phoenix Youth door, it is because they have chosen to leave a sometimes dangerous home situation with hope for a better future. Contact Information: Brigid Savage Director of Development Phoenix Youth Programs (902) 422-3105 Run Site Contact: Patti Melanson 237-5165 |
