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.