BOYS RUN I TOOWÚ KLATSEEN
Team stretching before 2022 Boys Run 5K Fun Run. (Photo by James Poulson, Daily Sitka Sentinel)
SAFV launched Boys Run I toowú klatseen in 2014 after realizing the success of Girls on the Run. We worked with partners in Sitka and Juneau to create a similar program for 3rd-5th grade boys.
It is offered every fall as part of Keet Gooshi Heen Elementary School's after-school programs in partnership with GLO 21st Century Learning Program. In 2015, the program expanded to the community of Kake with great success.
Boys Run is a 10-week curriculum with 20 lessons that teaches boys healthy relationship and lifestyle skills. The curriculum is divided into three sections: 1) sense of self and knowing one's worth 2) healthy communication and relationships, and 3) positive decision making, teamwork, and community. Throughout the season, boys learn important lessons, including how to work together as a team, how to process and express emotions, and how to choose to be an ally. Not only do the boys end the season by finishing a whole 5k, they also plan and implement their own community service project!
The 2017 Monday/Wednesday team made THIS VIDEO to teach their community about environmental stewardship.
Boys Run integrates a strong cultural component, honoring Southeast Alaska Native culture and values to foster an appreciation and understanding across cultures for all participants.
Boys Run envisions boys growing up into confident, compassionate men who will help create a community of respect and nonviolence.
2022 Boys Run 5k Fun Run. (Photo by James Poulson, Daily Sitka Sentinel)
We keep our costs for Boys Run as low as we can, in part thanks to our amazing volunteer coaches. However, half of our participants need scholarships each year. Individuals and organizations can fully sponsor a participant for $100, tax-deductible through SAFV.
If you are interested in providing a partial or full scholarship for one of these programs, or would like to volunteer or want more information about the program, contact schools@safv.org.
To go to the official Boys Run I toowú klatseen website, click HERE.
Media
Interviews
Participants of Boys Run talk with Raven Radio about their 2014 season.
