PROACTIVE KIDS Geneva Throughout this issue, we have been highlighting different ways to keep your body healthy and fit. All the signs point to a trend in communities becoming healthier as more and more gyms and studios open every day. Yet, statistics are showing in this world of video gaming, smart phones, computers and hundreds of television and cable channels to watch, our children are remaining inactive and becoming obese. For children, this could be devastating as it opens them up to bullying, not being able to physically participate with others and can lead to loneliness and depression. ProActive Kids Foundation out of Geneva is working hard to bring those statistics down.
ProActive Kids was founded by Tony Burke, who grew up in Wheaton as an overweight child. He wanted to help kids not only in fitness and nutrition but also mental health, a big component of obesity. “This program offers a safe environment where kids (ages 8-14) can work out and learn about proper nutrition,” says Nicole Klinkhamer, Executive Director of ProActive Kids and also, Anthony’s wife. “The program also focuses on building their self-esteem and body image as well as managing stress, feelings and a variety of other issues.”
The foundation partners with health care organizations to offer free healthy weight programs 3-days a week for 8 weeks. Every Friday is Family Friday where everyone in the family is invited to work together for the fitness and nutrition lesson and the lifestyle lessons work on skills within the family unit.
ProActive Kids Programs are held in a variety of locations dependent upon where they are getting their funding. In the past, they have held programs in Pottowatomie Park in St. Charles and are currently looking for new funding in the tri-city area. This summer, the program will run through the Wheaton Park District and this fall, in Lombard, funded by Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital. Another great step up for the foundation is this summer’s launch of a licensed, self-managed program. “This will enable any organization anywhere to offer their own ProActive Kids program,” says Nicole.
To find more information on ProActive Kids and their programs or how you can assist, visit them at www.proactivekids.org .
Mindy’s July Giving Inspiration: This summer, as you amble down streets and visit parks, put a
ABOUT THE WRITER Mindy Kyle is the owner of Be Inspired Studios and is passionate about helping people discover what brings them joy and to live a full, healthy and happy life. She has her Masters in Fine Arts degree in creative writing from DePaul University and lives in Naperville with her husband, three children and the cutest dog in the land.
