Wellfit Girls Annual Report 2018 - 2019 by wellfitgirlsSWFL

LEADERSHIP | FITNESS | EMPOWERMENT

Wellfit Girls 2018-2019 Annual Report

L EA D ERS HIP FI TN ESS E M POWERMENT

W E L L FI T GI RL S

Message from the Executive Director Dear Partners and Supporters, It has been a big year of change for Wellfit Girls. I look forward to sharing our new programmatic changes and expansion plans for the 2019-2020 fiscal year in this annual report. But first, we must not forget to celebrate all that Wellfit Girls has accomplished over the past six years. With your support, we have proudly graduated 90 Wellfit Girls from our leadership, fitness and empowerment program. Wellfit Girls is dedicated to changing girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lives and reaching them at an incredibly vulnerable time in their teenage years. We continue to be the only organization in Southwest Florida that provides a unique comprehensive youth development model committed to providing teen girls with cultural immersion, outdoor adventure & experiential learning opportunities. Participants learn tools to let go of negative self-talk and fears that hold them back from their greatness and potential to make a difference in the world. We empower them to have difficult conversations, to do something bigger than themselves and most importantly to connect with their peers and ultimately themselves. At Wellfit Girls, we believe that a holistic approach of intentional leadership and fitness training, small group settings and a challenging expedition are what allows the girls to step out of their comfort zones, turn obstacles into opportunities, disconnect from the known, connect with the unknown and increase selfconfidence all while creating lifelong friendships. In this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual Report we are proud to present data showing the positive effect Wellfit Girls has on improving relationships with peers and adults, resiliencies and building self-confidence. As we reflect back on our 2018-2019 fiscal year, we are thrilled to know our program is changing lives. When girls feel empowered, they have greater confidence and success. It also makes our world a better place. With your support, we are investing in our future leaders and creating strong, confident women with big goals. Thank you for believing in our mission! Sincerely,

Colby Robertson Executive Director

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

O UR M IS S IO N To inspire, challenge and empower teen girls to climb high in all areas of life through transformational leadership programs.

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THEORY OF CHANGE IF WE build positive relationships with youth, provide fitness & leadership training to expand their confidence, offer cultural immersion, outdoor adventure & experiential learning opportunities to broaden interpersonal skills & raise aspirations and prepare them mentally, physically and emotionally to overcome past, present and future obstacles;

T H EN

they experience increased empowerment & self-acceptance; physical fitness & holistic wellbeing; courage & resiliency; gratitude, empathy & compassion; optimism & connectedness;

W HICH R ESULTS IN empowered leaders who have unlimited possibility and a belief they can BE anything they want (brave, hardworking, generous, hopeful, free, curious and happy); thereby creating self-reliant adults committed to healthy lifestyles, global awareness and positive social change.

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

“Before Wellfit Girls, I was a shy and reserved person. Trying new and extraordinary things seemed impossible to me. Through Wellfit Girls I was able to find confidence in myself to go above and beyond and do great things. Today I have the courage to be myself and be a leader.”

Zabrina Wellfit Girls 2019 Ft. Myers High School

“Before

Wellfit

Girls,

wasn’t

confident, I didn’t believe in myself and I didn’t have much love for myself. Through Wellfit Girls I have learned to be more positive during challenging situations and be more confident when speaking up about something. It has also really helped me with certain friendships and situations at school”

Isabella Wellfit Girls 2019 Barron Collier High School

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“Before Wellfit Girls, I worked myself to the point of self-destruction. I was insecure with my abilities and constantly was comparing myself to others. Through Wellfit Girls I have come to realize that I am enough and that I will accomplish my own amazing things.”

Sofia Wellfit Girls 2019 Ft. Myers High School

“My daughter was broken, and now she is whole. After a terrible divorce, my daughter was suffering. It was devastating to her, as well as everyone around her. After intensive therapy and participation in Wellfit Girls, I have my beautiful, smiling, daughter back. As I would drop her off every Monday and Thursday, she would reluctantly get out of the car to participate in the physical and mental activities. At the time she could not see how beneficial they would be to her but she mustered through. Always pushing herself to her limits. Cheered on by the girls around her and the leaders, she was able to accomplish more than she ever imagined. We will truly be forever thankful for Wellfit Girls and the growth, healing and independence it gave her.”

Wellfit Girls Parent A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

AAbout BOU TGirls Wellfit Wellfit Girls is a Naples, FL-based 501(c)(3) organization that operates in Collier and Lee Counties. Wellfit Girls was founded in 2014, received 501(c)(3) designation in 2015, and formally expanded into Lee County in 2017. The organization offers a fitness and leadership-based curriculum for teen girls who are in-need and at-risk to meet their full potential. The curriculum is designed to offer a combination of physical, mental, and interpersonal challenges, including conflict resolution, vision and goal-setting, leadership, and improved body image, to inspire girls to step out of their comfort zone and flourish as confident and empowered leaders. Personal training, running, yoga, and nutrition coaching are intentionally incorporated into the curriculum to teach a healthy lifestyle, the connection between mind, body, and spirit, body alignment posture and self-presentation skills.

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WHO Who Are The Wellfit Girls Program participants are academically capable teen girls from area high schools in Collier and Lee Counties. Participants have faced demonstrated challenges ranging from extreme poverty to secondary language acquisition to significant wellness and fitness deficiencies, anxiety or depression. Moreover, teenage girls in general are known to struggle with long-term personal difficulties related to feelings of self-worth and belonging. Girls apply to Wellfit Girls and are selected by a committee based on their need and collection of above strengths and challenges. While there is the opportunity for girls to fundraise meaningful portions of their program fees, our bigger vision is to offer scholarships to ensure no girl is turned away from the opportunity to be exposed to this incredibly powerful curriculum. To date, a large majority of Wellfit Girls participants have received some scholarship support. Participating girls, as a function of their involvement, are required to personally fundraise a percentage of the costs; this is an intentional piece of the curriculum that prioritizes accountability, leadership, and social entrepreneurship. We have an active alumni program, Beyond the Summit, that offers opportunities for service events, connection with program leaders and additional chances for adventure-based experiential learning. Wellfit Girls connects teen girls from across a broad spectrum of socioeconomic backgrounds, regional geographies, and personal experiences, and even in our relatively short organizational history we can be confident in the long-term benefits of the evidencebacked curriculum and the programmatic family that results.

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

NEED The Need Teen girls are faced with social pressures of body image, peer pressure, substance abuse, high levels of stress, anxiety and depression, which directly impacts their decision making, self-esteem, relationships, social and emotional behaviors, desire to take on leadership roles and community involvement. According to the Heart of Leadership, 1 in 4 girls have depression, eating disorders and other mental or emotional disorders. Low self-esteem, depression and anxiety are global issues with high prevalence in this population, having a huge impact on our local high school girls’ ability to realize their full potential.

and online platforms, yet the most isolated, interpersonally, which is a contributing factor to depression, suicide and anxiety. In her TED talk, Connected, but alone? Harvard professor, Sherry Tuckle says, “Human relationships are rich and messy and they are demanding and we clean them up with technology; and when we do that, one of the things that can happen is that we sacrifice conversation for mere superficial connection.”

Studies show 79% of girls opt out of important life activities – such as trying out for a team or club, running for student government and engaging with family or loved ones – when they don’t feel good about the way they look.

Feelings of loneliness and a lack of belonging create an environment that promotes higher levels of depression and anxiety in our youth today and when students face mental health challenges it negatively impacts school attendance, increasing the risk for behavioral difficulties, substance use, obesity, highrisk sexual behavior, academic difficulties, high school dropout and suicide.

This upcoming generation is the most connected cohort in the history of the human population, across cultures and nations, through digital media

If not addressed in their critical teen years, these mental health challenges and insecurities can stay with them through adulthood.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Human relationships are rich and messy and they are demanding and we clean them up with technology; and when we do that, one of the things that can happen is that we sacrifice conversation for mere superficial connection.â&#x20AC;? - Sherry Tuckle, Harvard Professor

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

SO LU T ION The Solution With adventure-based challenge programs, experiential education and interpersonal relationship coaching, the girls develop personal resilience, a collaborative spirit, physical and emotional fitness, as well as self-love and confidence. We cultivate a sense of community through belonging and inclusion. We create realtime connection. Challenges are intentionally presented throughout the program to encourage cooperative solutionseeking and personal resilience. We want participants to see challenge as an opportunity for transformation, not merely an obstacle to overcome. We are about amplifying each girls’ voice and minimizing the risks for mental health and psycho-social issues. We believe girls need to know they can speak up, lead and be rewarded for their courage and authenticity. We have a holistic approach to well-being. We emphasize self-love and body image not as an ideal, but as a unique and authentic expression of each individual.

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WELLFIT GIRLS AIMS TO:

• Create healthy lifestyles and habits at an earlier age

• Increase understanding of self-care needs • Increase self-esteem and body positivity • Build self-confidence • Improve mood and daily attitude • Improve relationships with peers and adults • Provide tools to manage stress and lower levels of stress at school and home

• Provide tools to fight off depression through exercise and meditation

• Cultivate a sense of community to feel belonging and inclusion

• Create connection with others

Fitness, running, stretching and strength-training lay the foundation for a healthy lifestyle positively impacting levels of serotonin, a chemical that helps regulate mental health. Other known benefits of exercise include:

off depression. Learning how to work out with others, encouraging and inspiring each other is a cornerstone to fighting off isolation and building self-confidence.

• Releasing endorphins, the body’s natural “happy chemicals”

• Lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol • Stimulating the neurotransmitter

norepinephrine, which improves mood, increases self-esteem and body positivity

• Helping teens sleep better Research shows that early interventions in health, fitness and nutrition are critical to incorporating lifelong healthy behaviors and improved mental health and wellness. Wellfit Girls Alumni regularly report that incorporating fitness into their lifestyles during and after Wellfit Girls is an empowering and effective way to manage stress and fight

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

NEW 2019-2020 PROGRAMS WAC WELLFIT ADVENTURE CAMP Wellfit Adventure Camp (WAC) is a three-week leadership, fitness and empowerment camp for incoming 8th and 9th grade girls to support the transition from middle to high school. Camp activities include team-building activities, small group discussions, yoga and fitness training. The camp culminates with a five-day, four-night expedition to Cloudland Canyon State Park in north Georgia.

LI F T IN FITNESS TRAINING LEADERS Leaders in Fitness Training (LIFT) is an eight-month fitness and wellness focused program for 8th and 9th grade girls. Wellfit Girls will pilot the LIFT program at Palmetto Ridge High School and Naples High School, working closely with school counselors to identify at-need girls who do not actively participate in after school sports. Students will work with a personal trainer one time per week for eight months learning the basics of strength training, yoga, running and nutrition. LIFT culminates with a 4-day river canoe expedition to North Florida during Collier Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Spring Break in March. The purpose of this program is to incorporate healthy living habits into the everyday lives of teens at an earlier age.

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SSUMMIT S SISTERS Summit Sisters is based off of Wellfit Girls’ comprehensive leadership, fitness and empowerment curriculum, which previously culminated in an expedition to Peru. We are shifting our signature five-month program into a two-year progression model for 10th and 11th graders. We will work closely with counselors to identify at-need girls. Our goal is to have a mix of students with varying mental health needs, academic achievements, fitness levels and socio-economic backgrounds. Participants will meet twice per week January through June of their sophomore and junior years. Each year, the program will culminate with a different domestic expedition in June to the western United States (Colorado, Montana, Utah, etc.). The purpose of this two-year program is to build deeper relationships with youth, provide more in-depth leadership training and create a safe space for girls to connect with nature, each other and most importantly, themselves. In 2020, Wellfit Girls’ signature program will culminate in June with a multi-day expedition to Montana. This unique experience will focus on teaching girl’s fundamental outdoor skills such as cooking, camping and navigation while developing leadership skills as an individual and as a member of an expeditionary group. Participants will be challenged physically and mentally while hiking with heavy packs in a changing alpine environment. While navigating through mountain terrain, girls will engage in lessons about Leave No Trace® camping principles and learn how to accomplish common expedition goals.

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

MIA MENTORS IN ACTION Mentors in Action is an opportunity for rising seniors who want to dive deeper into the Wellfit Girls leadership, fitness and empowerment curriculum, serve as a mentor and put what they have learned over the past two years into action. Mentors in Action is open to any rising senior from Lee and Collier County who has completed Wellfit Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; signature Summit Sisters program. Girls may apply to be a mentor for the Wellfit Adventure Camp (WAC), Leaders in Fitness Training (LIFT) or Summit Sisters.

WC WELLFIT CONNECTS Wellfit Connects is an initiative to support alumni after high school by connecting them with mentors, other alumni and additional opportunities for travel and personal growth. Through an online portal, Wellfit Girls alumni will have an opportunity to connect with adults in their same field of work, internships, job opportunities, career counseling, community service, networking events, alumni trips and more. An alumnus is considered anyone who has completed an expedition with Wellfit Girls. Our goal is to offer additional support and personal growth opportunities to girls in their first two years post high school. Alumni will also have opportunities to participate in an annual alumni expedition.

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“Studies show 79% of girls opt out of important life activities – such as trying out for a team or club, running for student government and engaging with family or loved ones – when they don’t feel good about the way they look.”

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

SERVE Who We Serve Wellfit Girls Participants by County

Scholarship Breakdown

COUNTY

# OF PARTICIPAN T S

S C H OLARS H IP

# OF PART IC IPA NTS

Collier County

Full Scholarship

Lee County

Partial Scholarship

TOTAL

No Scholarship

TOTAL

School Breakdown - Lee County

School Breakdown - Collier County

SCH OO L

# OF PARTICIPA N T S

S C H OOL

# OF PART I C I PA NTS

Fort Myers High

Naples High

PACE

Barron Collier High

Estero High

CSN, SJN, Seacrest (Private)

Other

Gulf Coast High

TOTA L

Lely, Lorenzo, Palmetto

Other

TOTAL

Grade Breakdown GRA D E

# OF PARTICIPAN T S

RAC E

# OF PART IC IPAN T S

9th Grade

African American

10th Grade

White, Caucasian

57 %

11th Grade

Multi-Racial

11%

12 Grade

Asian

Other

Latino or Hispanic

26%

TOTAL

10 0 %

Race Breakdown

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IMPACT Our Impact Since our founding in 2014, 90 girls have benefitted from Wellfit Girls. In that time, we have expanded our core program from Collier County to include Lee County, secured key community partnerships including United Way of Lee County, Fort Myers High School and PACE Lee County and have established the viability and impact of the program. Girls who successfully complete our program are more likely to: assume leadership roles in their schools, achieve successful college matriculation, seek out

volunteer engagement, demonstrate long-term commitment to physical wellness and fitness, display improved public speaking and other metrics related to self-confidence, and maintain better relationships with peers and adults. Formal assessments indicate improvements in measures related to trust, empathy, emotional control, academic motivation, and school bonding, all measures of improved resiliency. Studies show that resiliency is a better indicator of long-term success than IQ.

DATA 2018-2019 Demographic Data

White, Caucasian (non-Hispanic) = 57.9% Latino or Hispanic = 21.1% Multi-Racial = 10.5% African-American/Black = 10.5% Collier County = 42.1% Lee County = 57.9%

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

â&#x20AC;&#x153;100% of Wellfit Girls report a positive change in perseverance as a result of their participation in the program. New studies report that resiliencies such as perseverance are better indicators of future success than IQ and SAT scores.â&#x20AC;?

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Holistic Student Assessment-Retrospective The Holistic Student Assessment-Retrospective (HSA-R) was designed PEAR Institute in partnership with McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical The data outlined below provides a summary of studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perceived in social-emotional skills at the end of the program as compared to the the program.

by The School. growth start of

The HSA-R prompts participants to think about how you feel at the end of the program compared to the beginning of the program and uses a 5-point scale (1 = Much less than before, 3= About the same, 5= Much more than before) to rate the extent to which their thoughts and feelings have changed since starting Wellfit Girls.

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

KKeyEY Findings Overall, Wellfit Girls 2019 participants self-reported statistically positive change (i.e., mean scores significantly greater than 3 = “about the same”) on all 14 of the HSA-R scales.

• 100% of Wellfit Girls report a positive change in perseverance as a result of their participation in the program. New studies report that resiliencies such as perseverance are better indicators of future success than IQ and SAT scores.

• 95% of Wellfit Girls report they have more optimism meaning they have more hope that at the end of the day everything is going to be okay.

• 95% of Wellfit Girls reported a positive change in reflection, meaning they can

now make sense of their own experience, emotions and thoughts to create a sense of identity

• 89% report they are more assertive as a result of their experience in Wellfit

Girls, meaning they feel they have more voice and choice and more self-control to negotiate rules, roles and boundaries.

• 84% of Wellfit Girls report that as a result of the program they are more active (Action Orientation).

• 89% of Wellfit Girls report a positive improvement in relationships with peers. • 74% report a positive improvement in relationships with adults as a result of their experience in the program.

• 100% of participants report a positive improvement in learning interest and critical thinking as a result of their time in Wellfit Girls.

89%

84%

95%

O pt im ism

100%

100

PERCENT POSITIVE CHANGE - RESILIENCIES 19 responses

84%

74% 63%

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io ct Re fle

st Tr u

Em pa th y

ce se ve ra n Pe r

As se

rti

ve n

es s

l nt ro Co n

Em ot io

O re i

A nt ctio at n io n

PERCENT POSITIVE CHANGE - RELATIONSHIPS 19 responses 100

89% 80

74%

Relationships with Peers

Relationships with Adults

PERCENT POSITIVE CHANGE - LEARNING & SCHOOL INTEREST 19 responses 100%

100

100%

74% 58%

ca iti Cr

ol B

on di n

t In te re s g in rn

Le a

A M cad ot e iv m at ic io n

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

TThe EAM Leadership Team JILL Jill Wheeler Founder & Creative Visionary Officer; Consultant

COLBY Colby Robertson Executive Director

BROOKE Brooke Spencer Program Coordinator

LIANNE Lianne Martin Program Facilitator

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“A ship in harbor is safe, but that’s not what ships are built for.” - William G.T. Shedd

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

L to R: Scott Brown, Christy Carpenter, Jill Wheeler, Becca Pizzi (Inspired Speaker), Colby Robertson, Josh Leppo, Christine Citrano

B2018 OA RD - 2019 Board of Directors Scott Brown, Publix Christine Citrano, REALTOR, John R. Wood Properties Christy Carpenter, Gallagher Insurance Secretary

Magen Kellam, Magen E. Kellam Attorney at Law Josh Leppo, Leppo Financial Strategies Group of Wells Fargo Advisors Colby Robertson*, Wellfit Girls

Toya Felston, Fit Sistaz Fort Myers

Jill Wheeler*, Wellfit Institute

Cotrenia Hood, Steal Bleu President

*founding board member

HONORARY BOARD MEMBER Andrew Miranti*, The Village School

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PART N ERS In-Kind Donors + Community Partners Allegra Marketing

LEKI

Bella Diva Fitness

lululemon

Black Diamond

Neubek Photographers

C1B1 Communications

North Collier Regional Park

Copper Creative

PACE Center for Girls, Lee County

Cycle Bar Naples

Peru’s Challenge

Delicious Raw

Practice Yoga

Elephant Creative Co.

Publix

Eva’s Closet

Shaklee

Fort Myers High School

SIC Cups

Gulf Coast Runners

Sign Gypsies – Naples

Gulfshore Life Magazine

Sun Leaf

HBK

Tailormade Fitness

Jumpanzee

William Meyers Soups

Laces of Love

Venue Naples

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

VOLUNTEERS Volunteers Avorie Anderson, WG ‘17

Jacqueline Minick

Therese Benson

Justin Moomaw

Kayla Berry

Julio Morel

Maggie Bono

Bella Musico, WG ’17

Alyssa Corder

Lisa Najjar

Stevie Curcio, WG ‘18

Matt and Melissa Neubek

Nancy Dalasky

Sean Nolan

Laura DalSanto

Evelyn Pacheco, WG ’14

Jamie DePaola

Victoria Phillips

Casi Emmerich, WG ’15

Caroline Ridgway

Shannon Fitch

Helena Russano, WG ‘17

Natalie Finazzo, WG ‘15

Daniella Scott

Stephanie Galindo

Linda Shull

Jake Hester

Abby Sinburg, WG ’18

Natalia Hester

Carol Sissman

Heather Hicks

Lindy Smith

Abigayle Johnson, WG ‘19

Annie Spencer

Susan Kadel

Robbie Spencer

Holly Kistler

Kylie Troyer

Jamie Kirschner

Pat Vavreck

Kendall Klein WG ‘14

Heather Viniar

Litzy Lerma, WG ‘16

Amy Voelkl

Andrea Luviano, WG ’18

Bramel Walker

Alicia Madden

Savannah Walter

Lianne Martin

Riley Zuccarello, WG ’14

Lorel Martens

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SPONSORS Corporate Sponsors + Donors California Pizza Kitchen

MarkIT Group

Christine Citrano, PA

Med Express Urgent Care

Executive Electronics

Neubek Photographers

Ficarra Design Associates

Publix

First Watch

Sunshine Ace Hardware

Fit N Fuel Café

Tacos & Tequila Cantina

Gulfshore Life Magazine

Unique Wood

HBK CPAs & Consultants

Vineyard Vines

Jason’s Deli

Zampogna Law

Lee Health Foundation

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

GRANTS Community Grants

Allegra FootPrint

Swinging

United Way of

Fund Award

with Purpose

Lee County

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“Fear, uncertainty and discomfort are your accomplices towards growth.” - Joseph Campbell

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

$10,000 + Paulette P. Kempfer Family Fund Phyllis and Jerome Lyle Rappaport Foundation Tacos & Tequila Cantina Swinging with Purpose << Wellfit Girls is honored to be chosen as a recipient of a $10,000 grant from Swinging With Purpose to launch Wellfit Adventure Camp (WAC). Swinging with Purpose is a 501c3 organization that provides support to grassroots organizations serving the needs of women, girls and children in our community. To date, Swinging with Purpose has granted more than $750,000 in monetary and in-kind donations to Southwest Florida charities.

$5,000-$9,999 Ferrante Charitable Gift Fund Ficarra Design Studios Jett Thompson Antiques & Interiors, LLC Martha Meyers United Way of Lee County Joel Waltzer

$2,500-$4,999 Les Bolstad III UBS*

>> Gulfview Middle School chose Wellfit Girls for their annual Faculty/Staff vs. Student basketball game on February 13, 2019. The charity basketball game and classroom fundraisers raised a total of $1,108.30 for Wellfit Girls!

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*corporate match

$1,000-$2,499 Anonymous

Hamilton Family Charitable

Lee Health Foundation

Christine Citrano

Fund

Lund Family Foundation

Gulfview Middle School

Haze Consulting, LLC

Neubek Photographers

Karen French

Jason’s Deli

Zampogna Law Firm

Airmaid Company, Inc.

Kathy and David Dillon

Lucky’s Market

All Phase Electric

Anne Duvall

Elizabeth Rappaport

Bernie Beckman

B.J. and Denny Ferriel

Mathew Ross

Betty Blackwell

HPK CPA’s & Consultants

Linda Sanchez

Frances Bustamante

Gulf Coast Custom Homes

Zonta Club of Bonita Springs

Cathy and Dan Canterna

Chuck and Heidi Holley

– Estero

Eileen Collins

Bruce and Gretchen Koehn

$500-$999

$250-$499 Neil Auricchio

Barry and Christine Holes

Nannette Staropoli

Russ and Sharon Berkoben

Jetpack Pest Solutions

David and Jeanie Summers

Nancy Bradley

Laurie and Larry Leppo

Surgical Healing Arts Center

Jeannette Brady

Tracey Maloney

Tailormade Fitness

Britton Family

John Minerva

Maureen Toohey

Mary Campbell

Maureen and Roger

Unique Wood Floor Co.

Janette and Malcom Eddy

Parkinson

Vineyard Vines Retail, LLC

Fit & Fuel Cafe

William and Patricia Reilley

Daniel and Melissa Williams

Mollie and Jimbo Graves

Sandor Season of Giving

Wren & Roch

David and Stephanie Hardy

Kim Keyer-Scott

Riley Zuccarello

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

FFinancial IN A NCIAL Summary FUND IN G BY SO URC E

AMOU N T

Fundraising Events

$6 3,05 4

Program Income

$57,46 3

Individual Donations & Corporate Sponsorship

$31,94 6

Grants

$2 1,30 0

In Kind

$2 5 ,87 6

Scholarship Fund

$18,6 2 5

Student Fundraisers

$10,949

TOTAL REVENU E

$2 2 9 , 2 1 3

FUND RAISIN G EVENT REV EN U E

AMOU N T

Annual Speaker Series

$2 3,85 4

Souper Bowl

$16 ,405

#GivingTuesday

$9,7 2 2

Hop to the Top 5K

$8,794

Misc. Events

$4,2 79

TOTAL EVENT REVEN U E

$63 , 05 4

10%

21%

69%

U S E OF F U N DS

AMOU N T

Program Services

$16 2 ,5 83

Fundraising

$2 3,919

Administrative

$48,42 7

TOTAL E X PE NS ES

$2 3 4, 9 2 9

Program Services

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Fundraising

Administrative & General

SCHOLARSHI Nancy Beckman Scholarship P Congratulations to Ashley Thibaut, the third recipient of the Nancy Beckman Scholarship. The Nancy Beckman Wellfit Girls Scholarship Fund, founded by her good friend Martha Meyers in 2017, is awarded to one Wellfit Girl each year who represents and exemplifies the true characteristics Nancy embodied. The committee selected Ashley to be the recipient because of her tenacity, grace and positivity. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Being a part of Wellfit Girls has completely changed my life for the better. I approach situations differently now when they are challenging. I have also developed a deeper appreciation for my life and all of the opportunities I have, including being a part of Wellfit Girls. Thank you so much for your support!â&#x20AC;? - Ashley Thibaut

A N N UA L RE PO RT 2018 -2019

SCHOLARSHIP Jane Waltzer Scholarship Congratulations to Asheley Gelen, the second recipient of the Jane Waltzer Scholarship. The Jane Waltzer Wellfit Girls Scholarship Fund, founded by her husband and three daughters in 2018, is awarded to one Wellfit Girl each year who represents and exemplifies the true characteristics Jane Waltzer embodied. The committee selected Asheley to be the recipient because of her strength and determination. “It is such an honor to have been chosen to receive this generous and amazing scholarship. Words cannot describe how amazing this program is and how it has positively impacted me. The Wellfit Girls leaders have not only acted as mentors but they are also like family. They go out of their way to ensure my success. In the beginning, my home life had affected my school situation. This resulted in me being transferred to Beacon, an alternative school to make up my high school credits. I began to work hard and with the Wellfit leaders constant mentoring, I pushed through this difficult time. I ended up making up all my credits and having time to do my senior credits. In two months, I finished everything so fast that I qualified for early graduation. Instead of graduating early, I enrolled with Lely and registered for full time dual enrollment classes at FSW. Therefor, my senior year of high school, I am taking free college classes. Again, thank you so much for this scholarship. Without this scholarship, I wouldn’t have met amazing mentors and leaders.” - Asheley Gelen

SCHOLARSHIP Lis Nassberg Scholarship Congratulations to Ceci Telus, the first recipient of the Lis Nassberg Scholarship. The Lis Nassberg Wellfit Girls Scholarship Fund, founded by her best friend Nannette Staropoli in 2019, is awarded to one Wellfit Girl each year who represents and exemplifies the true characteristics Lis embodied. The committee selected Ceci to be the recipient because of her kindness and generosity.

“To begin with I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for this GREAT, AMAZING, OUTSTANDING, opportunity. Never in a million years would I find myself in Peru climbing a mountain, but guess what, I DID IT! With the help and support from my family, school, Wellfit sisters, amazing leaders, and last but not least you! Mrs. Nannette, I really enjoyed myself all 12 days and LOVED, LOVED, painting, playing and giving back to the community and kids and I wouldn’t have done it without you!! Thank you so very much I deeply appreciate it.” - Cyania “Ceci” Telus

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AWellfit LUGirls MNAlumnae AE Karla Gures | WG 18 | Fort Myers High School | University of Florida Eloisa Guerrero | WG 14 | Estero High School | U.S. Army Maria Guerrero | WG 14 | Estero High School | U.S. Army Savannah Harmon | WG 19 | Fort Myers High School* Kristen Hedgpeth | WG 15 | Gulf Coast High School | USF Sofia Herrero | WG 19 | Fort Myers High School* Alex Inniss | WG 17 | Barron Collier High School | Florida Gulf Coast University Alize Isales | WG 17 | PACE Lee County* Dasia Jackson | WG 18 | PACE Lee County* Brooke Jaffe | WG 18 | CSN | University of Miami (FL) Abigayle Johnson | WG 19 | PACE Lee County* Elaine Johnson | WG 18 | PACE Lee County* Lila Kirkman | WG 19 | Fort Myers High School* Kendall Klein | WG 14 | Barron Collier High School | Florida State University Katie Lamb | WG 19 | Naples High School* Faith Lemus | WG 19 | PACE Lee County* Daisy Leon | WG 14 | Estero High School | Florida Southwestern State College Litzy Lerma | WG 16 | Estero High School | Florida Gulf Coast University Andrea Luviano | WG 18 | Palmetto Ridge | Florida Gulf Coast University Elena Martens | WG 18 | Barron Collier High School* Alivia Massoll | WG 18 | CSN | Michigan State Carly McGovern | WG 18 | Fort Myers High School* Mara McKinney | WG 17 | Pace Lee County** Lena Mendoza | WG 17 | Fort Myers High School | Florida Southwestern State College Lilly Metsch | WG 17 | Barron Collier | University of South Florida Reyna Michael | WG 19 | PACE Lee County* Sima Muneer | WG 17 | Fort Myers High School** Bella Musico | WG 17 | Naples High School* Evelyn Pacheco | WG 17 | Estero High School | Florida Southwestern State College Olivia Palermo | WG 15 | Naples High School | University of Central Florida Gesa Pfeiffer | WG 19 | Gulf Coast High School* Isabella Pinto | WG 19 | Barron Collier High School* Sofia Ramallo | WG 16 | Barron Collier High School | Florida Gulf Coast University** Payton Rhodes | WG 17 | CSN | University of Tennessee 38

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100%

89%

graduated high school

went on to college/ university or armed forces

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AWellfit LUMNAE Girls Alumnae << “It’s been 4 years since life of a Wellfit Girl was a weekly investment in myself. I greatly miss the quality companionship and support I received throughout the 5-month program, but I am honored to have left with strong friendships in which I know will last a lifetime. Since completing the program, I have recently discovered my sincere passion for fitness and am currently studying for my CPT exam. I have already dedicated much of my time training and coaching friends and coworkers just as I wish I had years ago when I was new to the gym. Soon I will be certified and seeking my own clients to help fulfill their goals not only physically but mentally. Health and fitness continue to be a solid outlet for my stress and anxiety, and I intend on spreading this source of positivity to anyone in need. As much as I wish I could change the world, at least I can help make the world of a difference for a few. I couldn’t be more grateful for the knowledge and willpower Wellfit Girls has instilled in me and will forever recognize the programs impact on young women.” - Courtney, Wellfit Girls 2015

>> “When I began Wellfit Girls I was confused on which path to take, afraid to stand my ground. Today, I am a BSW working as a Case Manager at the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collier County. Since 2016, I achieved a lot of goals that I didn’t even know I had. Wellfit Girls helped me find my passion and pursue it. I always knew I wanted to help people in some way, but I didn’t know how. Through Wellfit Girls I realized how much bigger the world is and that no matter how large it may be I can make an impact. This inspired me to pursue a degree in social work. Through Wellfit Girls, I also developed a sense of wanderlust and found the independence/confidence to travel alone (see picture above from India), and go beyond my comfort zone. Due to this, I was able to work with different international nonprofits and agencies focused on assisting people. Wellfit Girls helped me see the bigger picture and I am so grateful for that experience.” - Sofia, Wellfit Girls 2016

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<< Hop to the Top 5K Top Row (L to R): Kendall Klein ’14, Cassandria Emmerich ’15, Natalie Finazzo ’15, Litzy Lerma ’16, Helena Russano ’17, Andrea Luviano ‘18 Bottom Row (L to R): Colby Robertson, Andrew Mirnati and Jill Wheeler

>> “I am so grateful to have this group that provides me with the opportunity to adventure, learn about myself and connect with amazing women who all share an intention to grow & empower each other. The work that I have done in this group has shaped me into a woman that I am genuinely proud of, and that’s something I had never imagined for myself when I started the program five years ago.” - Kendall, Wellfit Girls 2014 Naples High School

>> We had five alumnae participate in the second Wellfit Girls Alumnae Adventure & Wellness Retreat in La Ventana, Baja California Sur, Mexico in January. It was an exciting weekend filled with kite surfing, yoga and connecting with Wellfit Sisters from all five years.

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EHop VEtoNT S5K the Top

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EV EN TS Souper Bowl

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EInspired VE NT S Series with Becca Pizzi Speaker

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INSPIRATION Our Daily Inspiration When girls feel physically empowered, supported by enhanced public speaking skills, improved confidence, and deeper self-discovery, their growth as leaders is markedly enriched. The girls experience themselves as stronger inside and out, and the world experiences them as more confident, empowered, and ready to lead. Participating girls will have experienced many vulnerabilities prior to program enrollment. This program addresses these vulnerabilities in foundational ways, elevating girls into the next phase of their lives. Studies have shown that facilitated experiences and nature-based adventure have a positive influence on teens, improving self-esteem and self-control. Of related importance, how we carry ourselves in the world begins with a strong physical foundation. A key element of successful leadership, as imbued through the Wellfit Girls program, is a focus on the value of a positive, powerful and lasting impression. Seeing firsthand how Wellfit Girls graduates develop and thrive, through and beyond the program, provides continuous motivation to continue to grow this meaningful organization.

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HOW TO

How to get Involved Wellfit Girls provides a wide range of volunteer and sponsorship opportunities for supporters. We host several events throughout the year, including our Hop to the Top Easter 5K & Fun Run Easter weekend, an inspired speaker series, donation yoga, and our â&#x20AC;&#x153;Souper Bowlâ&#x20AC;? fundraiser on Super Bowl weekend. Our volunteer committees meet regularly, devoting substantive in-kind contributions of time and talent. Sponsorships at any level are welcome, and we encourage donors to reach out to us to talk about what makes sense for your family or company. More information about the organization is always available on our website, wellfitgirls.org, and we have printed materials available, as well. We welcome you to attend an upcoming event, or simply reach out for a conversation about all that our Wellfit Girls do for an in our community.

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GO W ITHIN TO GO B E YO ND!

W E LLF ITG IRLS .ORG