This September, three students from the Greater Holland Boys and Girls Club were the recipients of a $5,000 scholarship. Ny’Jawan J., Esli M. and Allisa M. were part of a group of 45 students in the U.S. who were recognized for their commitment to encouraging compassion within their community. With these three recipients, a total of six students from Holland who have been awarded scholarships over the past three years – there is clearly a big commitment to spreading kindness there!

PF’s Judgement Free Generation initiative strives to prevent bullying and encourage kindness, so it is a natural fit with the goals of the Boys & Girls Club. Planet Fitness® is all about creating a place that is free of judgment where anyone can come work out – a place that’s all about inclusion. Likewise, the Boys & Girls Clubs are all about promoting kindness.

Business Manager for PF West Michigan Kelly Campion said, “We are very proud to support the Boys and Girls Club of Holland. They are doing an amazing job with their students in creating a world of kindness.” PF Holland has made donations directly to this Boys & Girls Club location to support them in the work they do.

The Planet Fitness Scholarship program allowed for 45 teens from across the U.S. to receive awards. The scholarship program recently gave its 100th award, and that means that a total of $500,000 in scholarship money has been awarded to this point – which is impressive considering that the program only started four years ago.

To be considered for the scholarship, students had to submit an application. Boys & Girls Club students from around the U.S. sent in their applications, and the recipients were chosen by evaluating their personal essay, a recommendation from a staff member and a video. These materials show how the student has displayed compassion, inclusion and respect as well as how they have encouraged these values.

By teaming up with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Planet Fitness and franchisees have given over $5 million toward the goal of encouraging kindness. The program has also included training on preventing bullying for Boys & Girls Club professionals and students and being involved in volunteer initiatives. Along with that, Planet Fitness has built gym areas for Boys & Girls Clubs so that students can have a safe, inviting place to get some exercise.

Congratulations to Ny’Jawan, Esli and Alissa! PF Holland looks forward to seeing how these three young people go on to create change and promote kindness in their communities.