Providence YMCA Gets Kids On the Move

September 23, 2008

After school celebration shows kids how to get healthy while having fun.

Providence YMCA Youth Services will get the students of Providence On the Move with an After School Celebration on September 24 from 3:30 – 5 p.m. Students from D’Abate, Carnevale, Springfield, and West Broadway schools along with faculty, community partners, and local leaders will join in the fun. The festivities take place at Riverside Park with registration, giveaways, fun activities, and healthy snacks.

What:     Providence YMCA After School Celebration

Where:   Riverside Park, Aleppo Street in Olneyville

When:     Wednesday, September 24 from 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.

Why:       Nearly 1 in 5 (18.8%) Rhode Island children entering kindergarten during school year 2006-2007 was obese. Rhode Island ranks worst nationally in the percentage of children and teens who exercise regularly. The YMCA of Greater Providence is determined to help fight this health crisis by demonstrating fun ways for kids to get active and stay healthy.

Come see the YMCA’s urban program – Y On the Move – a fully outfitted vehicle filled with a host of fun physical activities and fitness professionals designed to engage young people in creating a path toward better health.

On the Move is the first part of a comprehensive campaign to improve the fitness of Providence’s children. Upcoming phases include partnership with existing organizations and facilities and the development of a Program Center to house the growing number of youth-focused programs.