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Columbus Africentric “Positively” Celebrates Families, Student Health and Wellness
May 19, 2022 -- The clouds parted, the rain stopped, and the fog lifted just in time for the Columbus Africentric Early College (CAEC) Family Fun Day and 5K. This outdoor event, which included students from several district high schools, was about students’ health, safety, and wellness -- especially young girls and their families.
“A sense of community is central to our schools’ success,” said Dr. Todd Walker, Director of CAEC. “It really does take a village to raise our children, so they succeed academically, feel safe, healthy, and strong.”
Before the 5K walk/run began, a custom-made positivity bench was unveiled between two buildings on the 500-acre CAEC campus. The Twin Rivers (OH) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated donated the bench as part of the organization’s mission to encourage the community to embrace a healthy lifestyle. The Twin Rivers (OH) Chapter of The Links is a community service organization of professional black women.
“The Positivity Bench is more than a safe space,” said Links member Dr. Bonita Ward. “The bench represents a place and symbol for the advancement of mental health prioritization. “We want to provide a place where students, families, and the community can talk about issues openly and peacefully.”
“We are thankful to the Twin Rivers Chapter for providing this space for our students, staff, and community,” said Dr. Walker. “This space will empower students to engage in conversation and feel empowered to make a difference in their community.”
Along with the 5K fun run/walk, students from East, West, Eastmoor, CAEC, and Beechcroft high schools visited stations where they played games, and competed in a mini-obstacle course, and learned about healthy foods and habits, including how to fight obesity.
"May is Mental Health Awareness Month," said Dr. Yolanda Stewart, Assistant Principal, West High School. "We are trying to emphasize childhood obesity and mental health with our students, especially our young girls, so they stay active and improve their overall well-being."
Today’s Family Fun Day was sponsored by Columbus Africentric Early College, The James, The Ohio State University, The Links Incorporated (OH) Chapter, Any Girl Can!, the City of Grace Church, I Know I Can, and the National Coalition of Black Women.