Planet FitSmart put MTR Smit Kids Through Their Paces
www.MyPE.co.za: When
Planet FitSmart in Walmer reached out a neighbourly hand to the MTR
Smit Children’s Haven, little did they know that they would
irrevocably
change the lives of more than a hundred children.
Acting on a suggestion by two staffers, Planet FitSmart manager Egmont
Pauls immediately put a sponsorship programme in place to enable the
haven’s young residents to exercise to their hearts’ content.
“We get involved in sponsorships where we believe we can truly add
value and it was easy to see how this (membership) would benefit these
kids.”
Dr Crystal Watson, MTR Smit’s director, says the value of the
sponsorship far exceeds its worth. “Many of our children have a lot of
pent-up energy and frustration due to their circumstances and exercise
is incredibly therapeutic.”
She says apart from
the physical advantages, the children’s self-worth
is also boosted by the mere fact that Planet FitSmart is taking an
interest in their lives. “The way our kids are treated by the staff is
highly commendable.”
Pauls says the residents work out on a weekly basis according to age
group appropriate training programmes.
He says the haven’s proximity played a part in their decision to get
involved with MTR.
“We are community driven, with special emphasis on
reaching out to those in our immediate vicinity. Logistically it is
also a huge advantage.”
Michael de Klerk, lifestyle manager and the mastermind behind the
initiative, says it is incredibly rewarding to be involved.
“It’s fantastic to be able to contribute to the lives of these
youngsters. I love it when I see them smile,” and adds the trainer in
him, “and also when I see them sweat!”
They try to accommodate each individual by developing strengths and
addressing weaknesses, according to De Klerk.
Administration manager Diann du Plessis, who volunteers her help with
the training sessions, says the boys seem to enjoy the circuit and
weights, while the girls love the hip hop and Latin fever dance classes.
Port Elizabeth Budget Accommodation
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