Kicking for a Cause Fundraiser

On Saturday, March 10th Elements Academy held our first Kick-a-thon as a fundraiser for KidSafe's GEMS Program. Our goal was to raise a minimum of $6,000 and we are thrilled to announce we not only met but exceeded this goal! Girls Exploring Motion & Self (GEMS) is a program that provides a safe place for girls to spend time together once a week, to check in with trustworthy, female role models and to feel comfortable trying new forms of exercise in an inclusive, non-judgmental environment. Thanks to the efforts of our members, neighbors and friends this program now has the funding required to run for a whole year at Nightingale Elementary School.

Elements is committed to supporting/encouraging healthy living and as the only woman owner of an independent Martial Arts studio in Vancouver, Emma is particularly motivated to provide Martial Arts and self-defence programming to girls and women. Participants of GEMS have the chance to try something they have never tried before with the hope that they learn to enjoy physical activity instead of dreading it. Self-esteem and body image are also addressed as is healthy eating with the overall focus on increasing the participation of non-active females in alternative to sport programs.

In addition to believing in the goals of KidSafe, and GEMS in particular, we have chosen to organize a fundraiser in support of GEMS because this program was cut entirely due to funding shortfalls. Before these cuts GEMS ran for almost two years at both Grandview and Nightingale Elementary Schools. We want to connect girls with programs that empower! Thank you for helping us revive KidSafe’s Girls Exploring Motion & Self Program through your participation and/or sponsorship of our Kick-a-Thon.