Health Studies majors, Elecia Cardarelli ‘18, Emily Ciano ’18, and Shannon O’Rourke ’21, implemented three sessions of the F.I.T (Framework for Integrated Teaching) Club  at Champagne Heights, a subsidized family housing site in South Kingstown  The students joined members of the 3rd and 4th grade Homework Skills Club,which is run by Ms. Karen Buetens, LICSW, and offers kids in grades K-4 an opportunity to gather with friends and work on their homework in a supportive environment.  The F.I.T Club curriculum incorporates reading and interactive activities to learn about physical activity, a healthy diet, and sleep.

Shannon explains “I wanted to take part in the F.I.T. Club  because I have a passion for health promotion, and it provided me an opportunity utilize my passion to teach children how to lead healthy lives”  Reflecting on her experience, Emily said “It was awesome to teach the kids about a healthy lifestyle, something that I am passionate about. It was great to work with the kids, Karen, Dr. Greaney and the other URI students. It was a positive experience both personally and professionally.” Similarly, Elecia said that “working on F.I.T Club was an extremely rewarding experience for me. Since I grew up down the street from Champagne Heights, it was very valuable to me to work with that group of kids and give back to my community. The whole experience taught me a lot and showed me what I was capable of doing.”

We are hoping to expand this effort next year and thank the Homework Club and Karen for letting us spend time with them. Thank you!