Brandon Mehlinger joins the Active SWV team as 7th AmeriCorps VISTA
“When thinking of my experience joining the last two Active SWV group runs, the thing
that first comes to mind is the sense of belonging. As someone who just moved to the area, I was
looking for a way to become more involved within the community. The Active SWV group run
members welcomed me as if I had been running with them for years. In talking with those who
were at the group runs, you could tell they were passionate about physical fitness. You could see
they cared for each other’s well being, not just in running, but in all aspects of life,” shares Brandon.
Brandon joins us from Norwich, Connecticut with a major in criminology from Eastern Connecticut State University and minor in criminal justice from Three Rivers Community College. Brandon shares that he is interested in learning about ways to provide resources for individuals to improve their quality of life and be role models in rural communities.
“Being selfless and helping others is what this world needs. I truly believe there is no stronger sense of purpose than when you are making a positive change for others,” says Brandon.
Supporting youth to enjoy running
Brandon will be working closely with Youth Program Director, India Krawczyk, to expand the Kids Run Club program to more rural elementary schools in West Virginia. In addition to youth programming, Brandon will improve communication systems and volunteer recruitment across all program areas.
The Active SWV Kids Run Club program seeks to improve the health of southern West Virginia’s youth by empowering them with the opportunities, skills, knowledge, and confidence to be physically active. The central goal of the program is to instill healthy habits in our area’s youth and to get them excited about running and physical activity. Active SWV hopes that all participants find joy and confidence with running and physical activity, so that they can continue to be active beyond their time in the Club.
Please reach out to Brandon for opportunties to speak about all of the Active SWV programs and grant opportunities. Email [email protected] or call 304-254-8488.
