13 October 2008
YMCA Launches New Initative- Y Kids Run!
As part of Live to Play month, the YMCA is taking the opportunity to build on its mission to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities by launching the Mark Gleeson “Y-Kids Run” challenge in their OSCAR (Out of School Care and Recreation) centres today.
“The “Y-Kids Run” challenge is a six week program that teaches children about nutrition, goal setting and personal achievement” says Haley Gleeson, Mount OSCAR leader and creator of the Y-Kids Run challenge. “We want to encourage all of our OSCAR children to be physically fit and active so that they learn about and enjoy all the benefits of a healthy life style…and hopefully the rest of their family gets it too” Gleeson adds.
Each participating child will have his/her own event pack which includes goodies from the Cancer Society, Hubbards and more. Each child will also receive a Y-Kids Run tee shirt courtesy of our event sponsors: Marley, Ideal Electrical and Chesters. The aim is to not only have all of the kids achieve their goals but also to have so much fun that they maintain their activity level and healthy eating for the rest of their lives. Building self-esteem and encouraging team building is just one of the many attributes the “Y-Kids Run” children will pick up along the way.
The challenge is being named after Mark Gleeson, Haley’s father, who passed away just a few weeks ago. Prior to his death, Mark enthusiastically supported this inaugural event and secured Marley Plumbing, his company, as lead sponsor and assisted in the cultivation of the Chester’s Plumbing and Ideal Electrical as supporting sponsors.
Great guest speakers from HEHA (Healthy Eating, Healthy Action) and Kiwi-Can are scheduled to visit to encourage and support our children through the challenge.
On 16th November at Links Ave Soccer Club - Mt Maunganui, the “Y-Kids Run” challenge will culminate in a fantastic challenge day. The day starts at 10am and entry will be a gold coin donation to further support the YMCA Tauranga’s community efforts. Parents, family and community are invited to come support the children for their final run. It will be a great day where fun memories will be created. It is a day is not to be missed.
If you would like your child/ren to be part of the great YMCA family, please call the YMCA at 578 9272.
About YMCA Tauranga
The YMCA Tauranga provides great opportunities for people of all ages to participate in education and sport and recreational activities in the Western Bay of Plenty. We embrace the National YMCA vision to build strong kids, strong families, strong communities.
YMCA Tauranga is an affiliate of The National Council of YMCA's of New Zealand, and the World Alliance of YMCAs.
More information is available at http://www.ymcatauranga.org.nz
ENDS