Boys Run Thanks
Dear Editor: SAFV’s Boys Run I toowú klatseen just completed its fourth season here in Sitka. Boys Run I toowú klatseen is a 10-week program that works to combat Alaska’s high rates of suicide, substance abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault by connecting third-fifth grade boys to supportive adults, while teaching them the social and emotional skills that they will need to build healthy relationships and communities. And the boys do all of this while learning to run a 5k!
Our fourth annual 5k fun run was last Saturday, Dec. 9. It was incredibly successful, thanks to overwhelming community support. We had more than 30 volunteers donate their time, energy, and food to the 5k, and Sea Mart, the Backdoor, and Highliner Coffee also generously donated treats for our participants. We were graciously hosted by Sitka National Historical Park, the City Harbor Department, and Harrigan Centennial Hall. What’s more, we had the honor of being ushered through our ceremony by a perfect MC, former SPD Sergeant and ally, Ray Majeski.
And that community support was seen throughout our 10-week program. We had the full support of the 21st Century GLO program and Sitka School District, with special guidance from Keet Counselor Diana Twaddle, Keet Principle Casey Demmert, and 21st Century GLO lead academic specialist Jeanette Farah. Raven Radio, KIFW and the Sitka Sentinel all helped us publicize our messages through weekly PSAs, as well as extra interviews for our 5k fun run. And we would not have been able to have such a successful program without our incredible volunteer coaches, who donated five hours of their time every week to mentor the boys. Huge thanks to Lee House (Element Agency), Sue Conrad (GLO), Siraj Sindhu (SAFV), Tina Bachmeier (SAFV), Tyler Holt (USCG), Steve Hutchinson (SAIL), Will Walker (USCG), Alex Souza (GLO), and Becca Foster (SAFV). The work they have done is meaningful and important. Please thank them when you see them.
Most of all, we would like to recognize the amazing work done by each of our participants. Not only did they train hard to complete an entire 5k, but they each did the hard work of learning to identify, process and express emotions, work as a team, and stand up for other people. Terrific job, boys! We are so proud of each of you.
Finally, thank you to this incredible community for showing once again that you care about boys and that you care that they grow into men that know how to express their feelings and how to support their community.
If you want to get involved with Boys Run I toowú klatseen next year, or its partner program Girls on the Run this spring, please contact Alaire Hughey at ahughey@safv.org or 747-3489. We are currently looking for Girls on the Run coaches and we’d love to have you join us in this work.
With much love and gratitude.
Alaire Hughey,
School Program Coordinator,
Sitkans Against Family Violence
