Keene Parks and Rec hold CATCH Kids Club Training

Keene Parks and Recreation, Keene, New Hampshire

The Keene Parks and Recreation Department recently held a CATCH training that was supported by a community organization called “AFHY”, Advocates for Healthy Youth.   “AFHY” executive committee members are from Cheshire Medical Center / Dartmouth Hitchcock Keene , the local school district, Keene State College, and other community partners and were contacted by the Foundation for Healthy Communities regarding CATCH trainings offered around NH.  In Keene , there is such a strong community base of organizations that would benefit from the program that AFHY decided to host its own training.   There were more than 12 different agencies with 34 attendees for the CATCH Kids Club training.   Most attendees were from the Cheshire County After-school Network.

The training was organized by Andy Bohannon, Recreation Programmer for the City of Keene. He wanted to bring his staff and others an opportunity to be involved in what is happening nationally. “Childhood obesity rates in Cheshire County are higher than the state average. If we can encourage more people to get active and live healthier lifestyles , then we will become a positive model for the rest of the state.   With AFHY leading the charge, I feel we are already progressive in our battle against this childhood crisis.   Children today just don't get out and play like we used to.  They need structure and fun, and the parents need to feel comfortable leaving their children with a quality program.”

At the Keene Recreation Center , this is the second year for the CATCH Kids Club and this season is off to a very successful start. “The training that Dr. John provided to my staff here today will impact our program immediately and in the future. I walked away motivated and excited about our future programming , ” said Bohannon .

Also attending, were PE teachers from three elementary schools, and two from Keene 's middle school.  Beth Corwin of Symonds School , said of the training:”The day was terrific.   I know we will be able to put directly into use some of the CATCH ideas/material.  I left thinking that it's pretty rare when a workshop is good, but it is even more rare when it's not only good but totally practical and implemental.”  

Bohannon went on to add, “Dr. John Krampitz was great presenter who provided a training session for instant learning. His approach of the CATCH philosophy was right on.  He made learning fun and enjoyable, especially the nutrition piece, which can be intimidating if you have a limited background.”

“ CATCH is happening in Keene and we want it to spread around the state.  It's a great program that teaches kids how to live healthier lifestyles. ”

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