Welcome to the Valley elevateHER!
Interview with Kristen Van Norman, Executive Director of elevateHER
A new non-profit organization has planted roots in the Arkansas River Valley, and those of us at House Rock Kitchen were so excited by its vision, we couldn’t help but partner with them. In fact, our very own Jess Jones became a board member and is heavily involved in the wellness portion of the organization’s programming. Recently, we interviewed Executive Director, Kristen Van Norman, to get the scoop on what elevateHER is all about. Enjoy!
What was your goal with starting elevateHER?
ElevateHER’s programming is meant to empower the young women of the Arkansas River Valley through outdoor adventure, a tool that can give them the lifelong skills they need to be successful and the empowerment needed to take on new challenges.
What sort of lifelong skills do you emphasize?
Leadership skills are tied into all our programming. For example, we have a Leader of the Day, a girl who is responsible for assuring that all the girls have their gear, sunscreen, food, and water. And then, throughout the day, it’s the leader’s responsibility to make sure everyone is doing well or suggest a change in activity if needed.
Why do you consider wellness an important part of your curriculum?
Jess Jones of House Rock Kitchen runs the wellness program, a comprehensive curriculum that includes yoga and meditation. She’s also designed workshops that address nutrition, self-esteem, body image, stress, and what it means to be a woman.
Our partnership with House Rock Kitchen is important because our program is largely focused on nutrition. We’re making sure the girls are aware of what they’re putting into their body. With House Rock Kitchen providing lunches for all our programming days, we’re ensuring the girls get a healthy meal every time they’re with us.
What other skill do you teach?
We also teach resume building, budgeting, and life skills not taught in a traditional high school setting. We help girls with the college application process, and for those who choose not to attend college, we’ll prepare them for other career paths, more specifically, outdoor recreation. For example, our rafting component is taught as a mini guide school, so the girls can go on to work for one of the valley’s many rafting companies.
When does the programming take place and what are the costs?
We run the program year-round. During the school year, programs take place from October through March. During the summer, we meet Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 am to 2:00 pm, for our physical activities. Our wellness programs take place in the evenings throughout the summer. Our girls are required to participate in all the programming, which is FREE!
House Rock Kitchen is stoked this stellar non-profit has decided to call Buena Vista home. How exciting for all the girls in this valley! For more information on elevateHER, visit www.elevateHERco.org.
