ING Run for Something Better

MARCH 25, 2008

While the ING Run For Something Better® program gets kids on the road to better fitness, it is local teachers and coaches that are really going the distance. They motivate students daily to stick with it and meet their goals, bringing healthier lifestyles within reach of thousands of children nationwide.

Prior to this year’s ING Miami Marathon, ING hosted 100 attendees at a special, celebratory luncheon. “You are the ones who make this program successful,” said ING Southeast Region VP Mark Luckinbill, who served as the business host for the luncheon. “ING provides the framework, but it is your encouragement and good example that makes these young people want to be successful, too.”

Six coaches along with their respective middle schools were honored for their enthusiasm for and commitment to the program. Two of these coaches — Coach Stoots and Coach Henderson from Palm Springs Middle School — ran the half marathon, as well as the final mile with the kids. Palm Springs Middle Principal Melissa Wolin believes the example set by Stoots and Henderson really helped amp up the students for getting fit.

“When the program started, some of the students could not even complete one lap, which is ¼ of a mile,” said Henderson. “Now many can run three or more. The fitness — and attitude — improvements we have seen have really been remarkable.”

At a time when standardized testing and other demands have resulted in schools cutting back on traditional physical education, ING is helping to bring fitness learning back into schools. “In addition to the importance of fitness and nutrition for overall health, exercise and good nutrition has been proven to lift academic progress overall,” said Miami Dade Head of Business Operations, Ofelia San Pedro. “There are so many reasons this is good for our schools, and we cannot thank ING enough for making it possible.”

“A large company sponsoring something like this — and the depth to which you are involved — has been so impressive,” said Principal Wolin. “ING does not just write a check; your involvement is clearly deep and heartfelt.”