#United States #Planet Fitness #Hampton #Boys & Girls Clubs #Judgement Free

Planet Fitness Awards Scholarships to Inspire Teens

Planet Fitness, a leading name in the fitness industry, has recently made headlines by awarding $250,000 in scholarships to 50 high school seniors from Boys & Girls Clubs of America. This initiative is part of their annual Judgement Free Generation® scholarship program, aimed at recognizing the commitment of young individuals in fostering values such as inclusion, acceptance, and kindness within their communities.

Scholarships for a Judgement Free Future

Since the inception of the Judgement Free Generation® scholarship initiative in 2017, Planet Fitness has granted over $1.65 million to deserving teens who exhibit a consistent dedication to supporting and uplifting others. This year's batch of scholarship recipients each received $5,000 to assist them in their academic pursuits. Distinguished from traditional scholarships that usually honor athletic or academic excellence, this program highlights youths who actively promote kindness and acceptance. Approximately 50% of this year's winners are first-generation college students, emphasizing the diversity and opportunities created by this initiative.

Selection Process

The selection of recipients involved a rigorous evaluation process that included a personal essay, recommendations from Boys & Girls Club staff, and a video submission. These submissions were assessed based on how well participants demonstrated the Judgement Free values through their actions and advocacy for inclusivity.

Inspiring Stories from the JFG Squad

Among the recipients are three remarkable individuals, each with their unique stories:

• - Aniya A., despite facing homelessness at the age of 13, was nurtured by her local Boys & Girls Club and now works as a junior staff member and youth development intern. Aniya aims to study Psychology at East Tennessee State University to continue her advocacy for a judgement-free future.

• - Jack S., who transitioned from a participant in the afterschool program to a counselor, dedicates his free time to community service. Jack plans to pursue Finance at Virginia Tech, where he will continue to encourage others and volunteer.

• - Irina C., motivated by her personal experiences and the loss of a friend, co-founded a suicide prevention clothing line, successfully raising $10,000 for the local Boys & Girls Club's Wellness Center. She intends to study nutritional sciences at New York University, with a goal of raising awareness about mental health support.

A Community Commitment

McCall Gosselin, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Planet Fitness, emphasized the company's focus on creating a welcoming environment for all. He stated, "Our commitment to Boys & Girls Clubs of America and its youth is just one of the ways we focus on supporting younger generations, advancing their well-being and empowering them to promote kindness in their communities."

Jim Clark, President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of America, expressed gratitude for the partnership with Planet Fitness, acknowledging their efforts to support deserving teens and help them succeed academically and socially.

Continued Support for Youth Wellbeing

Since beginning their collaboration in 2016, Planet Fitness, together with its franchisees and members, has contributed over $10.5 million to promote youth wellness and empower younger generations in building kinder communities through the Judgement Free Generation® initiative. They have also funded innovative programs focused on social-emotional skill development.

In addition to scholarships, Planet Fitness has established mini Judgement Free Zones® in select Boys & Girls Clubs and engaged in various community service activities nationwide, reinforcing their commitment to a more inclusive society.

Planet Fitness continues to set an example for corporate responsibility and youth empowerment, showcasing how businesses can play a vital role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. The inspiring stories of these teens serve as a reminder of the positive impact individuals can have on their communities.