Here's a brief interview with Tracy Bennett, executive director of Treeswing, one of the recipients of a portion of the proceeds from Celebrate Green! Learn more about this terrific organization on their website.
What is Treeswing's mission?
Treeswing was founded in response to the alarming epidemic
of childhood obesity. Our mission is to
reverse this trend and improve the health of children and families in our
community.
How does Treeswing make an impact on people's lives?
Through innovative programs and partnerships, Treeswing works
to make healthy choices easier for kids. Treeswing promotes change in both the
behaviors and environments of children, families and communities. We seek to increase children's physical
activity and healthy decision-making. We work to remove barriers to healthy
diets and exercise within schools, families and communities.
What is the most exciting aspect of what Treeswing is doing?
The most exciting aspect of our work is seeing children and
teens take responsibility for their own health. Whether something as simple as
using one of the 10,000 jump ropes we are distributing or advocating in Olympia
for policy change, young people are recognizing that they can improve not only
their own health, but that of their friends, families and community as well.
What are some of Treeswing's goals for the future?
Over time, we hope that parents and communities will take a
proactive role in changing the environments in which children live and learn,
in the same way we tackled the issue of smoking. As people brought pressure to bear on
business and government, we saw the ban of tobacco advertising on television
and smoking on airplanes and other public venues. Our goal is to get
communities engaged to bring about similar change – a reduction in junk food
ads aimed at kids, and increase in physical education and recess time in
schools, for example.
Why do you personally work with Treeswing?
I am passionate about fitness as well as children's health,
so Treeswing is a perfect match for me. When I learned that my children's
generation is the first to have a shorter life expectancy than their parents, I
felt compelled to join this Treeswing in tackling this epidemic. I truly
believe that we can create change at a community level.
If people want to be involved with Treeswing, what should
they do?
We have many opportunities for people to support
Treeswing! We have an active volunteer
program, which allows people to contribute their talent and expertise in ways
that work for them. Some opt for an ongoing commitment while others prefer a
short-term project. Some work from home while others join us at the Treeswing
office. You can sign up to volunteer on our website at Get Involved. We also count on financial support from
individuals, businesses and foundations. You can make a donation directly via
our website, or contact our office to make a pledge of support over time.
What percentage of Treeswing's income goes into programs?
Treeswing is very fortunate to have secured seed funding for
its operating expenses during s start-up phase. As a result, donor
contributions directly support program costs and associated marketing/advocacy
efforts. Our goal is to increase Treeswing's financial sustainability through generating
broad-based support in the community as well as developing ongoing revenue
sources.
