Good News Florida

LOCAL 38 APRIL 2018 Good News • South Florida Edition BiGCardio returns onSatur- day, May 5, celebrating 11 years of benefitting the community. Produced by BiG Chil- dren’s Foundation (BCF) – a non-profit organization that provides opportunity and hope for foster teens and at-risk youth—the annual BiG Cardio 5K and Multi-Sport Event is a unique blend of fitness, sports and family fun. With more than 10 different fitness and sport activities to choose from and dozens of other attractions, it’s become one of South Florida's favorite events. The event was designed to reach several different audi- ences simultaneously in one location, so there is something for everyone in the family. “It’s a multi-sport event, so it’s per- fect for the entire family,” said Joyce Feldman of BiG Chil- dren’s Foundation. “And this year, we’ve added a special needs/wheelchair division so everyone can participate.” Since its inception in 2008, the goal is to be inclusive of the whole family, while simultane- ously attracting the active com- munity as well. “Not only is BiG Cardio fun, but it acts as a plat- form to raise awareness for foster teens and at-risk youth and generates revenue for our iMfit2SUCCEED program.” The iMfit2SUCCEED Pro- gram—for foster teens, victims of human trafficking and abuse, and at-risk youth age 14 up—focuses on key areas necessary to help them heal and transition into adulthood successfully. Through mentor- ing, training, education and real-time experience, the goal is to the help the teens restore hope, become physically, emo- tionally and spiritually healthy, redirect pain and anger into something productive, and de- velop skills to succeed in life. “In meeting with child welfare agencies and churches over the past several months, it be- came clear that a long-term wrap around program like this is needed in the community. And with the awful tragedy we saw in Parkland recently, you have to wonder if the young man who committed the crime had people in his life who were discipling him, addressing his hurt, anger, and emotional state, would the outcome have been the same?” “We aim to heal their past, and reshape their future. Sometimes it’s hard to look at an angry, rebellious teen and feel compassion and empathy. But the truth is, these kids have value and at the core, they’re just children. They were victim- ized and circumstances shaped them; it wasn’t their choice. But they’re left to pick up the pieces and try to sur- vive. It’s a serious issue, and it effects everyone.” The trauma they experi- ence in childhood and adoles- cence can stay with them for life. “The effects of abuse don’t stop just because you get big,” said Debralen Cula Rodriguez, 43, former foster teen who aged out of the system in Hawaii through the Casey Family Program. “The trauma left behind from physical abuse can have long term effects and can resurface later in your life.” “Children are our future. We are committed to develop- ing programs that lead young people to positively change their lives – programs that give them the confidence, knowl- edge and tools to succeed,” said BCF Board Member, John BiG Cardio is Back for its 11th year! Special to Good News Adonis Reeves, of Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale, leads a cardio workout at BiG Cardio. Have some fun with the 5K run/walk.