Anthony

Anthony had a secret. At first, he didn’t share his secret with anyone. Maybe he was afraid of being ostracized by his classmates or even his teachers. Anthony loves school and participated enthusiastically in the marathon walking/running challenge supported by KIDS SPORTS STARS at his school. Not only did he excel, but he was also an inspiration to others. He did so well that he was one of twenty-one children chosen as an ALL STAR. It was only after the program ended that Anthony’s secret became known. Anthony is homeless and was living in a car throughout the program. He said the program "saved him."

He said the program "saved him."

Juan

Juan (not his real name) was born with multiple disabilities. While he has never been able to keep up with other kids, he has never stopped trying. He has grown used to the stares of other children and even the occasional taunt from a really mean kid. When the Kids Rock program was introduced to his school last year Juan was determined to participate. What he found was that his efforts won him the respect and admiration of his classmates. They realized that Juan was not so different. For the first time in his life Juan felt accepted.

"I feel accepted."

Breelle Lugo

Breelee has lots to smile about in this picture with Lyn St James (legendary race car driver). In this picture, Breelee has just finished riding in a Lamborghini and receiving an award for completing the four month marathon walking/running challenge at the Creighton School District . "I like the event. I liked driving in the cars the best. I did feel special." Breelle, who likes math and hip hop, jogged at school during breaks and also ran with her sisters around the block at home almost every day to log the 26.4 miles to complete the marathon. "Mom and Dad work (that’s it) but we did like the family nights” where they learned about nutrition and healthy eating. "I will be in the 5th grade next year and I will be in track. I am proud of that…..I want to keep going".

"I will be in the 5th grade next year and I will be in track. I am proud of that…..I want to keep going"

Nora and Juan

Nora and Juan helped create a wonderful family success story! They are siblings who both signed up for the KIDS SPORTS STARS program at their school. Their Mom came to parent evenings and learned about healthy foods and good exercise. She started to change the family's eating habits and encouraged everyone in the family to walk regularly. The entire family got involved walking with Nora and Juan before and after school and on weekends. Now the Mom knows that exercise and nutritious food are vital for having a healthy life. Their mother’s involvement in the program was critical for Nora and Juan…..thanks to her support they ran and walked more than 70 miles together in the fall marathon challenge program and were selected as ALL STARS in the program.

“I found out that running is good for you and eating healthier is good for you. I like to exercise. I feel good.”

Brooke

My name is Brooke …. Going to the YMCA made me feel better about myself because I was exercising and losing weight. It helped build my self-esteem. Water aerobics was one of my favorite activities to do at the YMCA. It was a new experience for me and many of the other girls. I really appreciate that we got the opportunity to experience a variety of things most of us never even new about.” Brooke, age 18, Florence Crittenton

“I’m feeling better about myself, because I’m getting in shape.”