Sedentary Kids? Not These Champs!

The CHP Champions program is off to a thriving start for 2009. Hearing the Champions buzz for several years, and seeing more children involved, the community wants to learn more. Parents are asking: “What is the Champions program? Where is it offered? How can my child get involved? Is it really free?” CHP loves those questions.

Already 6,000 Students. CHP Champions, in a nutshell, offers children the opportunity to experience a healthy lifestyle today and tomorrow—while having fun—through regular fitness activities. The program began in August 2006 with voluntary, free physical activities before or after school in nine local elementary schools. Our goal was expanding the program to all students in Leon, Gadsden, Jefferson, and Wakulla counties by fall 2010. CHP Champions is now in all local counties: 54 sites, well over 6,000 regularly participating students, and more than 150 coaches. These men and women not only lead energetic, enjoyable activities, but also set positive role examples for our children. With the support of community partnerships, Champions is well on its way to meeting that 2010 goal.

Community Involvement. The program’s success stems from the key support of area school districts and community organizations. Wakulla County Senior Citizen Council, working with Wakulla County Schools, offers Champions in after-school programs of four elementary schools. The Boys and Girls Clubs of Jefferson County conduct Champions for elementary and middle school students. Gadsden and Leon counties’ school districts offer the program in all after-school elementary programs, as well as in part of the middle-school physical education curriculum. Leon County Schools has expanded Champions to ninth-grade high school students taking the required HOPE class.

Alex Stemle, vice-president of CHP Champions, says, “The collaboration of the Champions program and middle and high school teachers has allowed the schools an opportunity to creatively address the Sunshine State Standards for Florida Department of Education, while increasing the quality of workout sessions through moderate to vigorous physical activity.”

For More Information. Each school and community organization participating in CHP Champions has a “Champions contact.” This staff member can provide all enrollment information, program times, and dates. You can also contact Alex Stemple at 850-671-3278 or chp.champions@gmail.com. The goal of CHP Champions is to offer this free and fun program to all children who want to join in.