Wings of America
To enhance the quality of life of American Indian Youth, Wings uses running as a catalyst to empower American Indian/Alaskan Native youth to take pride in themselves and their cultural identity, leading to increased self esteem, health and wellness, leadership and hope, balance and harmony.
USA Cross Country Championships: Wings perspective student-athletes (ages 14-19) race for the top 12 spots to earn a fully sponsored trip to the USA Cross Country Championships. The program brings American Indian youth together from across the nation and offers an intercultural and cross-cultural exchange for participants.
Leadership/Facilitator Training: American Indian high school and college student-athletes are eligible for the training program. The purpose of the training is to educate facilitators on how to successfully conduct summer running & fitness camps for American Indian youth. Participants learn the skills necessary to mentor and inspire youth with fitness and health, incorporate Native languages, games and traditions. The training program is the transitional phase from student to leader, with emphasis on being an inspirational role model.
Running and Fitness camps: Wings running & fitness camps are prepared for students 6-12 years and 13-18 years. Campers focus on running and fitness, health education and awareness, team and community building, American Indian games and American Indian cultures, along with healthy life style choices.
Coaches’ Clinic: Wings of America and Nike, Inc. co-sponsor a Running Clinic for coaches, their families and community members who work directly with American Indian youth. The workshop is presented by experts in the running field -- prominent coaches, sports physicians, running club directors and Olympians.
1988