WCHS Kids After School Wellness Program Excels

Winnebago, NE – The Whirling Thunder Wellness Center continues to make a meaningful impact in the Winnebago community by hosting an after-school program dedicated to improving the health of local youth. This initiative, going on 14 years, supports children who meet the grant eligibility requirement of having a Body Mass Index (BMI) in the 85th percentile or higher, providing them with structured physical activities, nutrition education, and a supportive environment to develop healthy habits.  

With participation numbers growing, the program has already helped hundreds of children take positive steps toward improved fitness and overall well-being. There are currently 30 community kids in the program. Pre and post assessments are conducted with each session, measuring body mass index (BMI), height, weight, muscle mass, a1c, and blood pressure to ensure continued efficiency of the program. By engaging in fun, supervised activities, children not only increase their physical activity levels but also gain valuable knowledge about maintaining a healthy lifestyle. 

“This program is shaping the future health of Winnebago,” said Pilar Aldrich, Wellness Program Director at Whirling Thunder Wellness. “We are providing children with the tools and support they need to embrace physical activity and nutrition in a way that is both fun and sustainable. It’s amazing to see the confidence and enthusiasm growing in these kids as they take charge of their health.” 

To further enhance the after-school program and provide additional resources to the entire Winnebago community, Whirling Thunder Wellness has recently acquired new state-of-the-art workout equipment, made possible through Ho-Chunk Inc's employee donation program "Hochunk Way" along with funds from their Native American Public Health Act (NAPHA) grant. The wellness center was able to purchase new treadmills, ellipticals, recumbent bikes, and weighted plates. This investment allows community members of all ages to access modern fitness tools that support a healthier lifestyle. 

The Whirling Thunder Wellness Center remains committed to fostering a culture of health and well-being, ensuring that all members of the Winnebago community, young and old, have access to the resources they need to stay active and healthy.