Wellfit Girls, a Collier County nonprofit with the mission to inspire, challenge and empower teen girls to climb high in all areas of life through transformational leadership programs, is accepting applications for its 2017 program year. The organization hosts an open house from 6-7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 1, at Greenmonkey Yoga in North Naples for parents and students seeking more information.
The Wellfit Girls program is a five-month commitment to meeting twice per week beginning in January. Selected participants are challenged both physically and emotionally by trained Wellfit mentors who help the girls discover their inner leader and boost their self image.
The program culminates in late June with a nine-day expedition to Peru, where participants complete a community service project, trek above 15,000 feet and visit the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu.
Program director Colby Hazewinkel says the program “empowers girls to believe they can accomplish anything they put their mind to.”
Founded in 2014 by Naples resident Jill Wheeler, the program has seen 30 graduates to date, all of whom can attest that the experience has changed their life. Ms. Wheeler, a mentor and producer of the film “Warrior One,” attributes her own health and strength to her time spent in the outdoors and lifting others up. “I’m committed to the idea that challenge in nature and healthy peer groups are the greatest influencers for building self-esteem,” she says.
In addition to accepting applications, the Wellfit Girls program is also in need of private and corporate sponsors to help keep the program available to all girls, regardless of their financial situation. The cost for the program is $5,000 per girl, with full and partial scholarships available for those who qualify.
Applications for the 2017 program year are due by Nov. 18 and can be found online at www.wellfitgirls.org.
For information about sponsorship opportunities, email Ms. Hazewinkel at colby@wellfitgirls.org.