On May 3, the Optimist Club of St. Andrews-Irmo welcomed Sharon Frazier, Executive Director of the local Yogi Bears Program, as their guest speaker. Frazier discussed the program, an outreach of Lenoir-Rhyne University (Hickory, NC), describing it as a “for-profit social enterprise” that also offers some programs pro bono through grants and other sources.
Aligned with the Optimist Club’s mission as a “Friend of Youth,” the Yogi Bears Program introduces children to yoga. Certified yoga instructors teach motor skills, stress relief, and anger management to children ages 5 to 10 in Montessori, elementary, and after-school settings. The program operates on-site at schools, providing yoga mats and equipment, eliminating the need for parents to transport their children. Adding to the fun, a mascot dressed as Yogi Bear mingles with the children, offering encouragement.
In addition to yoga instructors, the program incorporates mental health professionals, art and expression specialists, and occupational therapists. Sessions are designed to accommodate children’s short attention spans by rotating through various activities. This engaging approach helps lengthen their attention spans as they become immersed in the activities.
Pictured are Optimist Club President Kerry Powers and Sharon Frazier, who received a copy of the Optimist Creed.
