Happy, Healthy Me! Volunteer Programs
Capper Foundation "On The Ball For Fitness"
Join JLT and The Capper Foundation as we kick off a new pilot program to educate young women and parents about the importance of exercise and eating patterns.
This program is designed for pre-adolescent girls, age 9-12, suffering from childhood obesity (BMI great than 25). In order to participate in the program girls, who meet the entrance criteria (BMI greater than 25), must be referred by a local pediatrician or family practice physician in the Shawnee County or surrounding area.
The Capper Foundation will implement this project with consultation from a registered dietician and JLT volunteers. We are seeking JLT members to act as a mentor to these young women throughout this pilot study session. A maximum of 10 volunteers will be needed throughout the session. The volunteer will attend the first and last meeting with the participant and her family.
Throughout the sessions the volunteer is also required to be in contact with the participant to support her efforts. The contact can take place through emails, phone calls or letters.
Join The Capper Foundation and JLT as we educate young women in the community on the importance of childhood obesity.
Family Service and Guidance Center “Get Moving”
The Junior League of Topeka and Family Service and Guidance Center are excited about our new program, “Get Moving”.
Family Service and Guidance Center (FSGC) was recently awarded a grant from the Sunflower Foundation HealthCare for Kansas to initiate Get Moving!, a childhood fitness program. This innovative and upbeat program is offered to the community at no cost. Get Moving! is designed to promote fitness in children ages 6 to 12. Classes combine physical activity with interactive education about food and nutrition.
During each class, volunteers will engage in a fun physical activity with the children and spend time helping children develop self-esteem and healthy lifestyle habits. Plus, each week every child will receive a free item that will help them get more excited about exercise and further their path to a healthier lifestyle. Parents will also participate in two class sessions to discuss what their children will be learning so the skills can be reinforced at home.
Each session lasts 8 weeks, accommodates 25 children and requires 4 community volunteers. Please let us know if you are interested in volunteering, we ask that you commit to at least 4 weeks of the program. The children really get to know and look forward to seeing the volunteers each week and we hope to provide them with continuity throughout their session.
