Goshen Heart Camp
This past summer, the physical education department held the first annual Goshen Heart Camp. Elementary schools in Elkhart County nominated 8-10 year old children to receive scholarships to attend this camp. The camp focused on heart health and was directed by Dr. Jewel Lehman and Registered Dietitian from IU Health Goshen, Michelle LeCount. Goshen College faculty and students served as activity leaders and mentors during the three week camp. Children came every morning from 9am – 12:00pm Mon. through Thurs. from June 13-30th.
The primary goal was to improve heart health by:
- increasing consumption of vegetables/fruits and reducing intake of junk food.
- increasing levels of physical activity.
- limiting screen time (computer, TV, etc.).
- providing the child with a college-age mentor for modeling and building self-esteem.
- empowering children/families by discussing choices and providing options
- having fun
Each day included two activity sessions separated by a snack break and an educational session. Physical activities included swimming (with instruction), Pillo Polo, developmentally appropriate weight training, flag football, campus golf, pickle ball, frisbee games, DDR, table tennis and others.
We deeply appreciate the assistance of the ECCOI, Goshen School Health Council, Elkhart County Health Department, Anita Stalter, Jim Histand, Josh Keister, John Hutchings, Michelle LeCount, Susan Stiffney, Courtney Kipker, John McClure, Rocio Diaz, Reba Goshert, NP, Chris Kauffman, RN, Elkhart County School administrators, nurses and physical educators, Val Hershberger, Lindsay Martin, Molly Kaufman, Heidi Collins, Cassie Greives, Sean Doering, Maritza Chavez, and Linda Kaminskis.
