Onward Willow wins the Seedling Prize from The Oaktree Project
July 12, 2019
July 17, 2018
This year Parkwood Gardens Neighbourhood Group partnered with Start2Finish and the After School Running and Reading Club at Gateway Drive Public School, one of 4 such clubs in Guelph. Michele Altermann is volunteering as one of the coaches for the first time this year and has seen a wonderful impact on the children who participate.
“We had one student in the club who when they started in September would not participate, join in the running, play games etc. They just stayed in a corner and read a book.”, Michele explains. “By the end of the year they were actively participating, joining in, encouraging others and being very engaged. They succeeded in running a 5 km race at Race Day in May in Toronto.”
After seeing how much one student changed in their attitude and engagement, Michele believes the After School Running Program will have a positive impact on their next school year as well. Michele says she’ll be returning as a volunteer next year.
The PGNG would like to thank the partners for making this program happen. “These types of partnerships make our communities happier, healthier and better places to live.” says Michele. And we couldn’t agree more!