NEW GLASGOW – The Johnny Miles Running Event Weekend is not only the inspiration for Glen Haven Manor's Learn to Run program, it will also be the debut course for several employees new to running.
The program, based on the C25K (Couch to 5km), was offered as one of the healthy workplace programs at Glen Haven twice a week to accommodate two staff rotations and to ensure at least one "guided” run a week. The program encompassed three runs a week, including one run with the entire group.
Christine MacFarlane, RN, Manager of Whispering Tide/ River Glen Resident Care Units and Janice Jorden, Employee Relations Specialist, both avid runners, are the coaches for the Learn to Run program.
"I love the group and I love to run and really enjoy seeing people embracing it,” says MacFarlane.
"I hope my passion for running will rub off on others. It’s been very positive for team building. All are really enjoying it, encouraging each other. Seeing those who found it challenging on the first week to run one minute, and then seeing them run for 25 minutes has really been inspirational to everyone."
Jordan says the program has been rewarding and fun and that's she is looking forward to crossing the finish line with her colleagues.
"This is a great accomplishment and I am very proud of everyone's commitment and desire to take part," she adds.
Darcy MacDonald, Glen Haven's Director of Finance and also a member of the run group and a yoga instructor, fully agrees with her running coaches and colleagues. “This has been a great team building experience which was also one of the main goals. It has brought together team members from many different work areas of GHM and gave us time together outside of the work environment. The other members of the group have given me the motivation to keep on running."
Lisa Smith, CEO, who is also part of the run group, says, "The Learn to Run has been one of our most successful healthy workplace programs. These kinds of opportunities support our staff in achieving wellness and a healthy work- life balance. Healthy employees are happy and efficient employees. Johnny Miles is a signature community event that has made a big impact on encouraging our community to be healthier and more fit. We are proud to have a Glen Haven team support it and join in the fun and look forward to future running events."
