Teri Lummis, Community Relations Director for Cardinal Fitness, is brimming with ideas to weave health and fitness into the fabric of her community.
“I open one door, and it seems to lead to 10 others,” said Lummis. “I really enjoy getting out and connecting with people, especially if we can come together for the betterment of the community.”
Her latest ideas stem from a project to improve health and fitness in Lawrence school children. The “My Community Gets Healthy” initiative debuts this fall in Lawrence Township schools. Supported by Lawrence Township School Foundation and other community partners, the program’s goal is to implement an ongoing fitness and wellness program for students and parents in the community. Students will take part in a fitness assessment and track their progress, along with parents and teachers, throughout the school year.
Students will also have the opportunity to join “Up & Running,” a structured marathon-training program, culminating with participation in the Geist Half Marathon and 5K Run/Walk Presented by Community Health Network on May 17, 2008. All proceeds from the marathon will be donated to support the school’s wellness programs.
When Lummis heard an estimated 1,100 school children had been identified as not having athletic shoes to participate in the program, she decided she was in a position to help. Lummis approached her employer, Cardinal Fitness about placing collection boxes for gently used athletic shoes in Cardinal Fitness stores.
“The response has been great!” exclaimed Lummis, who plans to continue the shoe drive until the need is met. The shoes will be sorted and distributed to students by the Lawrence Township School Foundation.
Lummis is on the marketing committee for the Geist Half Marathon, busily planning registration drives in the coming months. “By tying into other community events, we hope to get the word out about these important new initiatives,” Lummis said. “Getting the kids excited about participating in the marathon with T-shirts, wrist bands and activities is just added fun for me.”
A Geist Half Marathon Tailgate party is scheduled for November 10, in conjunction with Battle of the Badges, a blood drive competition among local law enforcement and firefighters benefiting the Indiana Blood Center. The location for the event will be 116th & Olio roads. Food, activities and a one-mile walk along the scenic route of the marathon are planned.
To donate athletic shoes, simply drop by one of the Cardinal Fitness stores at 96th Street and Mollenkopf, or Pendleton Pike and Sunnyside Road. Cardinal Fitness is also offering a membership discount to registrants of the Geist Half Marathon and 5K Run/Walk Presented by Community Health Network. Registration forms are available at participating stores, or you may register online at geisthalf.com.
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