Community outreach - children's activity programs

American Fitness, July-August, 1993 by Mari Nichols

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This month's "Community Outreach--Children's Activity Programs" is written by Mari Nichols, M.A., AFAA certified instructor and president of California School Fitness (CSF), a non-profit organization that offers elementary school youth fitness programs. Founder of Heartlight Aerobics, a national after-school aerobics program for children, Nichols is also featured in the "Fit-n-Caboodle" classroom aerobics video available from CSF, (619) 287-7093. AFAA certified instructors are invited to submit manuscript queries to the AFAA Board, c/o American Fitness. American Fitness is seeking scholarly articles regarding fitness assessment, leadership, specialty practices, management, excercise research and critiques of trends.

Wouldn't it be great to provide a children's fitness program in your community and at the same time gain valuable, personal and professional growth opportunities? Offering youth aerobic and fitness classes at a local school or recreation center has advantages for both you and the community. Just remember the first goal of all children's aerobics and fitness programs should be to provide a fun, safe program with emphasis on lifetime fitness.

Benefits to You and Your Business

Becoming affiliated with recreation centers expands your community outreach, networking and public relations activities. The professional contacts are especially helpful to new instructors in the process of establishing reputation and credibility. As you work toward these goals, your organization as well as your community will benefit.

* Image

The image of a recreation center is one of non-profit public benefit. When working with children, a wholesome image is important. Affiliation with community centers and schools will add to your credibility as a public benefit organization. Parents will recognize your program has received a stamp of approval from an agency they trust. * Networking

At your community recreation center, you will work with professionals in related fields, such as directors of little league, soccer, gymnastics, etc. These are the youth leaders in your community--they are important people to know if you're working in children's fitness. Meet them and become part of the group that shapes policy for children's programming. Take advantage of this networking opportunity to be recognized as a youth fitness expert and resource. * Public Relations

Consider serving as a volunteer on the board of directors of a local recreation council. Serving on the board enhances professional status and business image. Community recreation councils are part of a hierarchical structure that eventually leads to the mayor's office.

You can build credibility by writing a youth fitness column for a local newsletter. You would provide an important public service while obtaining valuable advertising through name recognition. Also consider participating in special events at recreation centers. Children enjoy performing, and the exposure is priceless.

* Free Advertising

The centers usually print brochures and class schedules that are distributed to households citywide. As a program provider, you should distribute flyers and hang posters in schools and other areas with high public visibility. Be alert and take advantage of opportunities to promote your programs through affiliation with the recreation centers or schools.

Drawbacks to Offering Recreation Center Classes

Do your homework. What is the public opinion of classes offered at your local recreation centers? Initially, your program will assume their image. Is this image consistent with your personal mission statement? Do they offer high quality classes with experienced, trained instructors? Are their classes well attended? Are there cumbersome forms or time-consuming paperwork to deal with? Are the center's policies consistent with yours? Find out exactly what their policies are and decide if you can live with them.

Consider too, the atmosphere and facilities available in most recreation centers may not be glamorous. Don't expect raised wood flooring with mirrored walls and ceilings. Do expect a diverse population in your classes.

The final possible drawback is the center will determine the maximum amount you may charge for your class. They may also deduct a percentage for their costs.

Benefits to the Community