Go Girls! Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds is a group mentoring program that encourages physical activity, healthy eating and the development of a positive self-image, among girls aged 11 to 14.  This program is currently being piloted in selected Coquitlam schools.

How does the program work?
Go Girls! Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds runs in schools who have partnered with Big Sisters for eight, two-hour sessions that are held after school. Each session, led by volunteer mentors, incorporates fun, educational games and activities to stimulate relationship-building, self-reflection and group discussions about healthy living and emotional, social and cultural issues. Each session is structured around the three program themes: active living, balanced eating, and feeling good about oneself.

Who are the participants and mentors?
Go Girls! participants, girls ages 11 to 14, are selected by staff at our partnering schools. The girls who will benefit most from this program are those struggling with low self-esteem, who would not normally participate in organized school activities, and who would benefit from mentoring and discussion around physical activity, balanced eating, and making healthy choices.

Go Girls! mentors are young women, aged 19 to 25, who are enthusiastic, caring and passionate about healthy living and physical activity. Once they have completed the training, two Go Girls! mentors co-facilitate a group of 8-10 girls through activities and discussions over a two month period.