3 Alaska schools to receive fitness centers

As part of their ongoing mission to build a nation of the fittest, healthiest kids in the world, the National Foundation for Governors’ Fitness Councils (NFGFC) announced three Alaska schools that were selected to each receive a DON’T QUIT! Fitness Center.

The DON’T QUIT! Campaign has named Knik Charter School here in the Mat-Su Borough, Mears Middle School and Romig Middle School in Anchorage, to be gifted with the fitness centers, each worth $100,000.

The mission of the NFGFC is to put fitness centers in every elementary and middle school across the country, and to date, the NFGFC has donated fitness centers to 40 states.

“Congratulations to the selected schools who will receive a DON’T QUIT! Fitness Center,” said Governor Mike Dunleavy. “I’m proud to see our schools recognized for their commitment to fostering a healthy and active lifestyle.”

“Three schools really embodied our mission of building a nation of the fittest, healthiest kids in the world. I’m thrilled to announce that Mears Middle School and Romig Middle School in Anchorage, and Knik Charter School in Wasilla are all being awarded a brand new $100,000 DON’T QUIT! Fitness Centers. Congratulations to all, we look forward to visiting these three schools during our ribbon cutting ceremonies this fall!” said Jake Steinfeld, Chairman of the National Foundation for Governors’ Fitness Council.

Each fitness center is financed through public/private partnerships with companies such as The Coca-Cola Company, Amerigroup Foundation, Wheels Up and Nike, and does not rely on taxpayer dollars or state funding. Fit Supply provides the fitness equipment.

Physical activity and exercise are shown to help prevent and treat more than 40 chronic diseases, enhance individual health and quality of life, and reduce health care costs. In schools, studies show that physical activity improves academic achievement, increases confidence and self-esteem, reduces discipline problems, cuts absenteeism, and fosters better interpersonal relationships.

The DON’T QUIT! Fitness Centers will be unveiled during ribbon cutting ceremonies this fall.

To learn more about National Foundation for Governors’ Fitness Councils, please visit www.natgovfit.org