Westly’s Mile kicks off at Tildenville Elementary School

Healthy West Orange and the American Heart Association kicked off their “Westly’s Mile” running program at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24, at Tildenville Elementary School in Winter Garden.

Westly’s Mile is a walking and running club designed to give elementary students in West Orange County a foundation of healthy habits. 

HWO, fueled by the Foundation for a Healthier West Orange, facilitates the program in partnership with the AHA. 

As part of last year’s program, students from 11 elementary schools ran and walked a combined more than 24,000 miles, with Tildenville leading the way as the No.1 school, collecting more than 7,200 miles.

“Getting active is an important step to good health,” the organizations said in a press release. “Scientific research shows that kids who are regularly active feel better, have improved mental health, build self-esteem, and decrease and prevent conditions such as anxiety and depression. Programs like Westly’s Mile help build a foundation for better health by teaching students how to create healthy habits.”

This year, the program has expanded to 15 elementary schools, which include Castleview, Dr. Phillips, Independence, Maxey, Ocoee, Panther Lake, SunRidge, Thornebrooke and Water Spring.

“We are thrilled to be working with the American Heart Association as we grow the reach and impact of Westly’s Mile,” HWO Director Krista Carter said. “Encouraging healthy behaviors is core to our mission, and what a fun way to get our kids active and moving.”

The organizations will host several kickoff events over the next several weeks with students, as well as Orange County Public Schools faculty, staff and parents.

“As we enter our second century of lifesaving work, the American Heart Association remains dedicated to equipping students with the resources and education needed to build a foundation for longer, healthier lives,” AHA Executive Director Heather Maloney said. “Programs like Westly’s Mile help to make our in-school initiatives engaging and memorable for kids. Together, we are fostering a generation that prioritizes heart health and well-being.”

Courtesy photo