New Initiative Helps Brooklyn Center Residents Find Virtual Wellness

There’s a new initiative to help Brooklyn Center residents stay healthy. The Kindness Imprint Project was created to provide free social and fitness classes to those who need it.

The program was founded by Angel Smith, who had a vision to help the community learn to love themselves. Smith applied for the Hennepin County Community Health Improvement Partnership (CHIP) grant and was one of six applicants that got it. The $500 grant allowed Smith to bring three experts to present at each session. These sessions are called “Virtual Wellness Escape 2020.” 

The program had its first session on Friday, Dec. 18. Marcus Watson, a personal trainer, taught the class on how to workout at home without equipment. 

Home workout wellness session with Marcus Watson.

Future Sessions

The second session begins Saturday, Dec. 19 from 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Participants will learn how to cook a healthy meal with ehef L’Aurelle Johnson.

The third session is also on Saturday, Dec. 19. and runs from 11:45 a.m. – 12:15 a.m. This class will be on mindfulness, meditation and journaling. Dr. Sheila Sweeney, a psychotherapist will lead the session.

“There’s nothing selfish about self-care, which is important,” said Smith. “Having programs such as these work sessions, which is only 30 minutes of your time. It’ll allow you to relieve stress. It allows you to allow your body and mind to recharge and that’s important as we continue to ride out this pandemic.”

Brooklyn Center-based nonprofit CEAP partnered with Smith on the wellness program. CEAP provided journals and food to those participating in Saturdays journaling and cooking sessions. 

“Although this is open to anybody, purposely there were partnerships made to apartment complexes. I find individuals who live in this type of setting, they have a challenge that individuals who live in homes do not, especially during the pandemic,” explained Smith.

Smith hopes to create more wellness sessions in the future for apartment communities in Brooklyn Center. 

To sign up for Saturday’s virtual classes, you can email: mobile.traning.facility@gmail.com. 

Brooklyn Center