This article was written by Jennifer L. Byrd, a valued contributor to SpoFI. Jennifer is a mother, donor, volunteer, and veteran educator who brings her unique perspective and dedication to our organization. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jen for her multifaceted contributions to SpoFI, which have a profound impact on our community.
The unencumbered joy on the faces of these dads as they paddled the rapids in sync is infectious.
This reflects the unity and effort that brought them to this point in their fitness journey and teamwork they exemplified in organizing the SpoFI Father’s Day Celebration 2024 & Fathers of the Year Presentation.
While this wasn’t their first time on the water, it was their first time together with a renewed sense of health, confidence, and community. There’s something about “firsts” that bonds a group indelibly—whether it’s our first kind friend, first encouraging teacher, first mischievous escapade, or first moment looking into our child’s eyes. This was indeed a memorable first for these dads.
Heather Branstetter, along with her team members Scott and Greg in the safety boats, graciously and professionally led the group down the Clark Fork. Although the route was familiar to her team, there was a noticeable difference in this journey.
The boat, paddled by Lawrence, B, Garrett, Chris, Logan, and Jim, was filled with healthy snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, and a genuine sense of brotherhood. Even DJ and his daughter, who couldn’t join in the boat, met for breakfast and drove to a beach pullout to wave and provide respite midway through the journey.
When asked about the impact of the Dads AF program, the participants shared not only their progress in fitness with provided tools and strategies but also the fellowship, camaraderie, and friendship they developed. They spoke of the metaphorical challenges they overcame: running stairs, climbing walls, shifting menus, and changing habits. By meeting regularly and supporting each other, they achieved their goals.
Dads AF Capstone Adventure (Part 1)
These dads spent weeks learning new practices and forging bonds that refer back to a time when communities played, worked, celebrated, grieved, and raised children together.
This trip was the culmination of their journey towards holistic well-being, demonstrating how leaning on each other and choosing health can bring more joy to their experiences and bring more joy within their families.
A Special Thanks To our Valued Donors
Your generosity has ignited a transformation in our community through programs like Dads AF and the SpoFI curriculum. You’ve helped forge a brotherhood of fathers who are redefining health, friendship, and family bonds.
Thanks to you, dads are finding renewed vitality, children are gaining positive role models, and families are growing stronger. Your contributions have funded more than fitness classes – they’ve sparked a revolution in health, mindset, and community spirit.
The impact of your support reverberates through every workout, every nutritious meal, and every moment a father feels empowered to be his best self. You may never meet those you’ve helped, but your generosity is shaping a healthier, happier future for countless families.
Thank you for investing in the heart of our community. Your continued support will help us expand these life-changing programs, touching even more lives.
Dads AF Capstone Adventure (Part 2)
Related Posts
-
Dads AF: Fatherhood Through Fitness, Community, and Service
Discover how Dads AF is transforming fatherhood through fitness, community building, and service. Learn about their journey from fitness classes to a supportive brotherhood, culminating in a healthier Father’s Day celebration that’s inspiring families and communities.
-
Real Food: Vanilla Chia Pudding Recipe
Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cashew Milk and Maple Syrup Busy dads, we know how challenging it can be to balance a hectic schedule while trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This Vanilla Chia Pudding is a game-changer for your mornings or snack times.
-
Real Food: Raw Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition and offer numerous health benefits. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps maintain a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, chia seeds promote heart health by reducing inflammation and improving cholesterol levels.
-
Raw Cashews
Cashews are a nutritious and delicious addition to a balanced diet They are rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which can support heart health by reducing bad cholesterol levels.
-
SpoFI Nutrition & Foods: Eating for Health & Balance with a Buying Guide
The key to success with this balanced eating plan is to focus on whole, minimally processed foods while prioritizing plant-based sources. By incorporating a diverse array of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, along with thoughtfully selected animal products, you’ll be well on your way to optimizing your health and well-being.
-
Help Us Shape Your Fitness Journey!
It will help us better understand your current fitness level, expectations, and goals as we embark on the Dads AF journey together. Your input is vital in establishing a strong foundation for the program, enabling us to personalize the experience and track progress over time.
-
Weekend Activities with SpoFI’s “Dads About Fitness” (Dads AF) Foster Community and Wellness
In the scenic switchbacks leading down to the Little Spokane River today, a group of dads dedicated to healthy parenting and habits came together to hike. United by their commitment to personal growth and family well-being, these dads—SpoFI alumni and part of the Dads About Fitness (Dads AF) program—ventured into Waikiki Springs for a day…