Active SWV is pleased to introduce you to Jill O’Dell and Susan Walker, our January Community Captains of the Month. We caught up with Jill and Susan to talk about thier experiences with Active SWV and any advice they could offer to participants or other people who may want to get more involved with Active SWV.
Learn more about Active SWV Community Captains here.
Jill
1. Tell us about yourself
I am Jill O’Dell. I attended Marshall University and am a teacher at Midland Trail High School with a focus on math.
2. Why are you Active? How did you start?
I have always tried to be active. I like to walk, hike, paddle board and lake kayak along with other outdoor activities. I also like to country line dance and do yoga. I am a member of the Active Fitness Gym.
3. What motivated you to volunteer with Active SWV in your community?
Lately I had been in a motivational slump. I had to force myself to do activities I have always loved. My niece is part of the Active SWV, shout out to Veronica Crosier! I had seen all the great things going on with Active SWV and had planned on attending some of the other events offended, but again I have been in a slump. I became a Community Captain for selfish reasons; I thought this would motivate me to keep active and keep me on track. I also hoped to help others in the Ansted area to get out and be active.
4. How do you stay motivated? Why is being active a priority for you?
It has became a priority for me, it clears my mind when I walk, and I know other people are counting on me. Being in a group makes it fun and I have made new friends. I want to continue to encourage more people to get out, walk and get active.
5. Why do you think someone should join an Active SWV free program?
Group support helps me to continue. If it was just me, I might skip the activity and stay home. I like the variety that is offered through this program.
View the calendar of events here.
6. Do you have any words of encouragement for people thinking of becoming a Community Captain or interested in committing to becoming more active?
I would encourage you to become a Community Captain because you help yourself while you are helping others. You may form a small group and watch it grow or you may just change one person by encouraging them to become active.
Susan
1. Tell us about yourself.
I am a retired Health/PE teacher.
2. Why are you Active? How did you start?
I have always loved any and all sports. As kids we were outside all the time. I just feel so much better when I’m doing something!
3. What motivated you to volunteer with Active SWV in your community?
Well, I was approached to do the walking group and it was an immediate “Yes”. I love to hang out with others who like to exercise.
4. How do you stay motivated? Why is being active a priority for you?
My husband and family are very active, so this in turn encourages me to work out and watch my diet. Overall health is my priority!
5. Why do you think someone should join an Active SWV free program?
First of all its free!!! And the interaction with others is awesome!
6. Do you have any words of encouragement for people thinking of becoming a Community Captain or interested in committing to becoming more physically active?
If you like to do an activity, share that. Because we have had people who have not walked the Ansted Rail Trail, and now they have others to go with. And we have all met new people, which is always a good thing.
