A Message from Our CEO and Founder
THE BEGINNING:
From the very start, I was blessed with incredible role models who deeply instilled in me the values of achievement and the joy of giving back. Physical activity, especially dance, became my sanctuary and source of vitality.
At the tender age of 12, I found myself teaching dance to the younger girls in my neighborhood—girls who lacked the opportunities I had. This simple act of sharing my passion ignited a realization within me: the profound impact one person can have on another’s life.
This early experience became the cornerstone of my life’s mission. It wasn’t just about dance; it was about empowerment, confidence, and making a tangible difference. This realization drove me to dedicate my life to helping others.
My journey took me across the globe as Reebok’s International Fitness Marketing Manager, where I had the privilege of collaborating with luminaries like Tony Robbins and numerous other influential figures. Every step of the way, my passion for mentoring, movement, and promoting a healthy lifestyle remained at the heart of my work.
THE FUTURE:
Over the past 26 years, as CEO of A World Fit for Kids!, I’ve had the immense honor of working alongside extraordinary individuals committed to enriching the lives of tens of thousands of children, young people, and adults.
Our exceptional expanded learning and afterschool programs in the greater Los Angeles area, coupled with our signature leadership training initiatives, have left a lasting impact not just locally, but globally.
We stand on the brink of a future brimming with potential. Our mission is more vital than ever: to co-create a world where every individual, regardless of background, can lead a fit and fulfilling life. This journey is one we cannot embark on alone. We need passionate supporters and dedicated partners who believe in the transformative power of education, mentorship, and healthy living.
Join us in this inspiring mission. Together, we can shape a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive, to dream big, and to realize their fullest potential. Let’s build a world fit for all kids—a world where health, happiness, and opportunity are within reach for everyone.
Yours in good health,
Normandie Nigh, CEO
Moving
Physical activity is not just about keeping fit; it’s the heartbeat of positive transformation. It teaches children the invaluable lesson that effort leads to results, instilling a sense of accomplishment that fuels their confidence. When kids engage in sports, dance, or any form of exercise, they experience firsthand the thrill of progress—whether it’s mastering a new dance move or scoring a goal, these victories, big or small, create a foundation of success.
Imagine a young girl, timid and unsure, stepping onto the basketball court for the first time. Through consistent practice and perseverance, she starts to see her skills improve. Each dribble, each shot, each game builds her confidence, teaching her that dedication pays off. These moments of triumph extend beyond the court, empowering her to tackle challenges in all areas of life with the same tenacity.
Physical activity also nurtures a sense of discipline and resilience. It’s where kids learn that setbacks are just stepping stones to greater achievements. The sweat, the effort, the occasional failures—they all contribute to a stronger, more determined spirit. This resilience, born from physical activity, becomes a cornerstone of their character, helping them navigate life’s obstacles with grit and grace.
Moreover, physical activity fosters social connections and teamwork. Kids learn the importance of collaboration, communication, and mutual support. These interactions build a sense of community and belonging, showing children that they are part of something bigger than themselves.
In essence, moving isn’t just about staying active; it’s about shaping futures. By encouraging physical activity, we are giving children the tools they need to make positive choices, achieve their goals, and lead successful, fulfilling lives. The playground, the dance studio, the sports field—these are the arenas where life skills are honed, and where the foundation of lifelong success is built.
Modeling
To truly inspire healthy behaviors in children, we must embody the change we wish to see. Leading by example isn’t just a mantra; it’s a powerful, transformative practice. Kids are incredibly perceptive, and they look up to adults as their primary role models. If we want them to embrace healthy habits, we must first demonstrate those habits in our own lives.
Think about a child observing their parent choosing a salad over fast food or opting for a morning jog instead of another hour of screen time. These actions speak louder than any lecture about nutrition or exercise ever could. When children see their role models living a healthy, balanced lifestyle, it plants a seed of understanding and aspiration. They begin to see health as a priority, not just a choice.
Moreover, modeling healthy behaviors extends beyond physical fitness. It includes mental well-being, emotional resilience, and social connections. Imagine a teacher practicing mindfulness in the classroom, showing students the importance of mental health. Or a coach who emphasizes the value of teamwork and sportsmanship, demonstrating that success isn’t just about individual accolades but about supporting and uplifting others.
By taking care of our own well-being, we are better equipped to guide others. It’s like the principle of putting on your oxygen mask first before assisting others on an airplane. When we prioritize our health, we have the energy, clarity, and capacity to support those around us. This approach fosters a culture of wellness that children can internalize and replicate.
Let’s take it a step further. Modeling also means being transparent about our struggles and showing how we overcome them. It’s about being human and relatable. When kids see us tackle challenges—whether it’s managing stress, overcoming a setback, or making a tough but healthy choice—they learn resilience and problem-solving skills. They understand that health is a journey, not a destination, and that it’s okay to face obstacles along the way.
Ultimately, by modeling healthy behaviors, we are shaping the next generation’s attitudes towards health. We are creating a ripple effect that can transform families, schools, and communities. It’s about showing, not just telling, the importance of a healthy lifestyle. And in doing so, we lay the groundwork for a future where healthy choices are the norm, not the exception.
Mentoring
Mentoring is a transformative journey that goes beyond mere guidance; it’s an exchange of wisdom, support, and inspiration that profoundly impacts both the mentor and the mentee. When we mentor others, we open doors to new possibilities, offering the gift of experience and knowledge. This relationship creates a ripple effect, spreading positive change far beyond the immediate interaction.
Imagine the quiet power of a high school student mentoring a younger peer. The older student shares not just academic tips but also life lessons—how to navigate social dynamics, overcome obstacles, and pursue passions. This mentorship provides the younger student with a roadmap to success, a tangible example of what’s possible. But the impact doesn’t stop there. The mentor, too, gains a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment, realizing the profound influence they can have on another’s life.
Mentoring is about building bridges between generations and creating a continuum of learning and growth. It’s the seasoned teacher who takes a novice under their wing, the experienced professional guiding an intern, or the community leader empowering local youth. Each of these relationships enriches our collective human experience, fostering a culture of support and continuous development.
Through mentoring, we learn empathy and patience. We discover that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge but also about listening and understanding the unique challenges and aspirations of those we mentor. This mutual exchange nurtures growth on both sides. The mentee benefits from the mentor’s insights and encouragement, while the mentor gains fresh perspectives and renewed motivation.
Moreover, mentoring fosters a sense of community and interconnectedness. It breaks down barriers and builds trust, creating networks of support that extend beyond the immediate relationship. As mentees grow and evolve, many become mentors themselves, perpetuating the cycle of giving and learning. This creates a legacy of positive influence that can transform entire communities.
Consider a community program where adults mentor at-risk youth, providing stability and hope where there was once uncertainty. The mentors offer guidance on everything from academic challenges to personal development, showing these young people that someone cares about their future. As a result, the mentees often find the confidence to pursue their goals and, in turn, become role models for others.
In essence, mentoring is a powerful tool for social change. It nurtures the potential within individuals and amplifies their ability to make a difference. By investing our time and energy into mentoring, we contribute to a brighter, more connected world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
