A group designed to provide support through the Windsor-Essex education system is trying a new, fun approach to an annual fundraiser.
Family Fuse and Lancer Recreation at the University of Windsor will hold its annual Movement Marathon as an all-day PA Day event, on Friday at the U of W Toldo Lancer Centre.
Family Fuse Program Manager and Co-Founder Christie Nelson told WindsorNewsToday.ca that the Movement Marathon serves two purposes. One of them is to give kids a chance to get out and move during a day off from school, and the other is to support the area's Black parents and caregivers.
"It's really about providing a wraparound approach with our partner agencies to ensure that the parents, and the children who are school-aged, are well-supported through their academic success," said Nelson.
Mike McMahon of Lancer Recreation added that it's more important than ever for kids to get back into the habit of getting out to play and exercise.
"We've seen a lot of drop-off of active behaviour with school-age children, especially over the pandemic," said McMahon. "Everybody's finding the opportunity to be active with these events. It's a great idea to keep the kids active, to keep them moving."
For a $20-per-student donation, students in grades 6 through 12 can stop by the Toldo Lancer Centre on Friday for a day of sports, exercise, and healthy eating. Activities include basketball, volleyball, pickleball, spin classes, and a group Zumba session, all under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Light snacks are being provided by Plentiful Harvest, Summer Fresh, and more, but parents and caregivers are being asked to pack their kids a lunch and a reusable water bottle.
The Toldo Lancer Centre is open Friday from 8:45 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Registration for Movement Marathon is required and is available on the Family Fuse website. The $20 donations may be e-transferred. To receive a receipt, include your name, child's name, home address, and email address in the transfer message box.