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Media Advisory
For Friday, Feb. 1, 2008

YWCA of Minneapolis fitness leaders recognized for Breaking Barriers
Women's Wellness Community Coaches and Strong, Fast, Fit Program - Latino Families Coordinator honored

WHAT:
MN hosts the largest National Girls and Women in Sports Day rally in the country. This year, YWCA fitness leaders are among the 19 athletes and sports leaders that will be recognized in a ceremony at the State Capitol on Wednesday, Feb. 6th.

YWCA Women's Wellness Community Coaches and the Strong, Fast, Fit Program - Latino Families Coordinator are being honored as Breaking Barriers award recipients.

WHEN:
Wednesday, Feb. 6, 2008
12:00 p.m. 22nd Annual MN Girls and Women in Sports Day

WHERE:
Minnesota State Capital
St. Paul, MN 55155

WHY:
YWCA Women's Wellness programs serves more than 200 women annually with fitness and nutrition programming that empowers urban women of color to take control of their health. Women's Wellness Community Coaches break down barriers that perpetuate health disparities in communities of color every single day. Coaches teach classes and provide health, fitness and wellness education to women in the community.

The YWCA Strong, Fast, Fit program serves both Latino and Native American youth and their families. Youth participate in a family-based obesity prevention program that will reach 120 children and their families this year. Luis Ramirez, Strong, Fast, Fit - Latino Families Coordinator, was recognized for his work promoting healthier lifestyles for Latina girls, and for supporting youth involvement in running and swimming. Luis sets a great example in supporting healthy lifestyle choices for girls in our community.

Twenty Women's Wellness Community Coaches and Luis Ramirez will be honored with Breaking Barriers Awards at the Minnesota Girls and Women in Sports Day celebration. The Strong, Fast, Fit program was originally started in partnership with the YWCA Women's Wellness Program.

The YWCA of Minneapolis is a nonprofit organization striving to achieve the empowerment of women and girls, and the elimination of racism.

CONTACTS:

Media Contact:
Ellen Cleary
YWCA of Minneapolis
ecleary@ywcampls.org