This is my first blog post for Stoneham Patch of a new blog I will be writing focusing on programs and youth development efforts at the Boys & Girls Club of Stoneham. 

I would like to spotlight a new successful program run at the Boys & Girls Club of Stoneham entitled "Walk America." This health and life skills program, designed by our Program Director Vanessa Templeman, promotes cardiovascular health and fitness with our members in a fun and engaging way. 

Now in our 10^th week of this program 80 Club members have completed a total of 210 collective miles, placing us in Amsterdam, N.Y. Now that we are approaching winter we conduct this program inside the Club's gym. However, when the weather permits, Club members walk outdoors.

Walk America takes place each Tuesday and Thursday from 2:30-3:30 p.m. and Club members of all ages join in on this program and walk and run with their friends to upbeat music. 

This program has proven to be very popular with our members and works well in promoting physical fitness throughout our Club. Here are quotes from several of our members who have participated in Walk America:

"It helps kids stay healthy," said one member.

"It’s cool to see how far you walked," said one participant.

"It makes kids get exercise!" said another member.