Active and Healthy Lifestyles for Children and Youth with Disabilities Program
(Agency Programs)

• We are looking for individuals who would be willing to mentor participants with disabilities between the ages of 5-18 in the La Crosse area. 

• The program requires 2-3 hours of physical activity during the week for a minimum of 6 weeks.  The mentor/mentee is free to stay in the programs as long as they would like as long as they are benefiting from the physical activity. 

• Placements could be programs in area youth-service agencies, after school programs, home visits, or community-based physical activity one on one with the mentor/mentee.   

• We are looking for motivated mentors 18 years or older that will encourage individuals with disabilities, allow them to feel success, and feel great about themselves and what they are doing through physical activity.  In order to become a Physical Activity Mentor, you need to attend an orientation meeting to learn the rules, regulations, and expectations of the program, attend a 2-3 hour training session once you are matched up with your mentee to learn about your mentees disability, emergency procedures, behavioral situations, adaptations for equipment, and modifications for a specific sport and/or activity.

• Program staff will match the mentors/mentees, then mentors will contact the parent/guardian of the mentee and a meeting will be arranged for the initial meeting session between the mentor, mentee, parents/guardians, and program staff.

• Programs with the mentors/mentees are set up based on the needs of the mentee.

This is a great way for your child to gain the skills and knowledge in physical activity and nutrition, while gaining confidence in themselves and a friend, someone they can trust.  In order to become a Mentor or a Participant, you need to fill out an application and that can be received through Shelley Wetzel - Grant Coordinator 608.785.8695 or wetzel.shel@uwalx.edu