One of the questions we get here at the Säjai® Foundation is what it takes to run the Wise Kids® programs successfully. There are a number of elements that affect how the program works, but without a doubt, one of the biggest factors is the site running it and the staff's interest and enthusiasm. Starting now, we'll profile sites across the country that have taken the Wise Kids programs and run with them, using their resources and energy to create a successful program for leaders and participants alike.
Spotlight On: eQuality
eQuality, a day program for adults with developmental disabilities, is located in suburban Minneapolis. Its goal is to help those individuals with developmental disabilities maximize their potential and become active participants in their communities – and in life itself! eQuality focuses on vocational training, education and recreation for its associates. eQuality prides itself on connecting its associates and their families with peers, employers and communities. Many associates work part-time and then participate in recreation and educational activities for the remainder of the day.
In 2010 eQuality partnered with the Sajai® Foundation to promote exercise and healthy eating habits to adults with developmental disabilities. Two groups of associates completed both Wise Kids®, and it was so successful that they subsequently completed Wise Kids Outdoors to supplement a greenhouse/gardening project that they were doing.
“The associates always tell the staff that they can’t wait until the next lesson to see what it will be!” shared one job coach. “[Wise Kids] greatly helps that those who would like to be healthy but really do not understand the hows and whys.” The associates immediately incorporated their new knowledge from Wise Kids into their lives, consciously trying to make healthy choices when possible. One associate has substantially cut down in the amount of soda that he drinks, substituting it with water instead! eQuality is another great program taking active steps to create Healthier Kids (we all are kids at heart, right?), Healthier Communities, and a Healthier World!
