HELLO SANTEE!

Youth recreation is essential for the healthy development of children and teenagers. Engaging in recreational activities not only helps young people stay physically fit, but it also provides them with opportunities to socialize, build relationships, learn new skills, and build self-confidence. When operating a business-focused organization, it may not seem obvious, but I see how these are essential to developing our children AKA our future workforce.

Several key leaders in our community also mirror my interest in youth recreation services, some focusing on it heavily in their own business. For example, owner of Expressions Dance & Movement Center, Darcy Fagerwold, recently stated, “I can’t express enough how much it means to us to be a part of this community of Santee. The fact that we were able to bounce back (after the pandemic) to have 700 kids dancing at the studio, I think that is a representation of the resilience of our community… our community was eager to rise again.” Continuing, Fagerwold also noted, “It’s because of the chamber that I’m able to connect, to have relationships… We work together to partner to support the kids in our community.”

I love that businesses see the direct correlation between a thriving and youthful community alongside a successful and impactful business community. Instilling physical and mental health in addition to social and learning skills is even linked to creating coping skills for dealing with anxiety and depression. Building self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment, directly impacting their mental wellness. Team sports and class-style recreation teaches them how to build relationships with trust, showing that these creative connections can provide a sense of community and belonging.

By encouraging young people to participate in recreational activities, we can help them develop into healthy, well-rounded adults with an emotional well-being. The future is looking bright for Santee’s next generation of employees and entrepreneurs.

Publisher

Santee Chamber of Commerce

Editor

Kristen Dare

Graphic Design

Nick Ossey

Contributing Editors

Melissa Dombo

Jennae Gonzalez

Committee Members

Heather Bury-Charpentier

Kristen Dare

Jennae Gonzalez

Contributing Writers

Kristen Dare

Melissa Dombo

Jennae Gonzalez

John Olsen

Contributing Photographers

Kristen Dare

Melissa Dombo

John Olsen

Lynda Marrokal

Chad Siford, Whissel Realty

Printer Advantage, Inc.