Visit to Boys and Girls Club

I recently had the oppurtunity of visiting the Boys and Girls Club in Detroit Lakes, MN. They were quite the busy bunch and had a ton of questions for me!

The Boys and Girls Club is dedicated to providing a positive place for children after school and during the summer. They participate in a variety of different activites. I had quite a great time sharing my platform with all of them. They were a range of ages for about K-6 grade.

I started off by sharing a little bit of who I was and why I had come to visit them. They were quite interested in why I was wearing a crown. Some even just said "Who are you?" It was a great chance to talk about the MRRVOT Program and a little bit about myself.

I talked about my Grandpa Chuck who has COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulminary Disease) from smoking. He started smoking when he was about 16. To help the kids understand COPD I gave them a demonstration that helped them grasp the disease better. I brought straws along with me. I had them seal their lips around the straw and breathe through it. They thought it was quite easy. Then I had them jog for a minute.They were honest after jogging stating that it was a lot harder. There was one individual that did not participate in the activity because of their struggle with asthma. It was a great illistration for the kids of what smoking can do to their lungs. I told them that if they say no to that first cigarette they will stay healthy! I had one little guy say "I want to be a grandpa!" loud and proud! Very cute!

After the exercise I talked about my SAY NO Acronym and discussed each letter with them. They were very willing to speak up about their beliefs and ideas. We finished our time together with a few questions and then they all got to have their treats after I was done.

While I was get ready to the leave the facility a few girls came up to speak with me. They gave me fabulous hugs and they had to ask if I had ever been on "America's Next Top Model." I responded with "I haven't," but they still thought I should give it a shot. I love the innocence of children!

MMMOT is approaching quite fast! I'm very excited for the MMOT Fundraiser in the Coon Rapids this weekend! If you get a chance come out to McCormick's for a great meal while supporting a fabulous program!

Until next time,
Paige