Social Innovation: 2012 ING Run is Helping To Fight Against U.S. Childhood Obesity
ING U.S., a leading provider of international financial services, is helping American teachers combat childhood obesity through its social innovation '2012 ING Run for Something Better School Awards®' in partnership with the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NAPSE). Together, these two organisations are awarding grants to help thousands of children discover a love for running and for creating a healthier lifestyle. Fifty schools from 27 states across the U.S. will receive up to $2,500 in grant money to support an existing school-based running program or start a new one. The grants will help schools introduce students from kindergarten through to eighth grade to the benefits of running and making physical activity a top priority.
Research shows that running is a great physical activity for promoting good health and self-confidence. It qualifies as a "life sport", one where participants are likely to maintain over their life time. Running as a form of exercise helps to build strong bones, muscles, contributes to fitness and to personal goal-setting. Additionally, recent piece of social innovation research has shown students who are healthy and physically active are more likely to be motivated, attentive and successful academically.
The 2012 ING Run for Something Better School Awards will support an eight-week school-based running program that concludes with a running event in celebration of the students' achievements. This social innovation award of $1,000 is given immediately, with additional funds awarded based on the participation in the program. Schools can download unique running lesson plans developed by NASPE to help them. Rhonda Mims, President of the ING Foundation and head of the ING U.S. Office of Corporate Responsibility says, "Childhood obesity is an important social issue. We realise schools need additional resources to help fully engage their students in enjoying and leading healthy lifestyles. We are empowering children across the nation to take charge of their health."
Click here to continue and comment Sangeeta Haindl is a staff writer for Justmeans on Social Enterprise. When not writing for Justmeans, Sangeeta wears her other hat as a PR professional. Over the years, she has worked with high-profile organizations within the public, not-for-profit and corporate sectors; and won awards from her industry. She now runs her own UK consultancy: Serendipity PR & Media.