The Hero Project continues to build excitement and energy as it brings the message of hope and possibility to Lake County families, reminding every parent that they are their child”s first and most important teacher. Through monthly themes and incentives, the Hero Project challenges families to do specific tasks each week. Past challenges include: reading together three times a week, eating together three times a week and unplugging from technology each night.
“We want to help parents keep their children as their central focus. Each month we offer a different theme, challenge, tips and ideas and a prize to keep parents motivated. There is always something we can improve on as parents, and that”s where the Hero Project can help,” said Hero Project Creator and Director Shelly Mascari. Upcoming themes include: Advocate, Breathe, Protect and Be Resilient.
The Hero Project launched in August 2014 and nearly 1100 parents, grandparents and guardians have already registered for a free account. This month”s theme is play and families are challenged to spend at least 30 minutes of play together each week. All Challenge Champions will receive their choice of free play equipment. One grand prize winner will receive a $150 gift certificate to Lakeside Family Fun Center in Lakeport.
The Hero Project is halfway through the school year and has successfully completed the monthly themes of Read, Eat Together and Unplug. Over 120 prizes have been distributed to Challenge Champions. Three Grand Prize winners have received prizes which range from a $250 customized home children”s library to a $150 game package. The first Hullaballoo was celebrated in November in Lower Lake. This free family fun night sold out with over 150 people in attendance.
The Hero Project is also receiving broader recognition. Mascari presented the project at the statewide First 5 Staff Conference in October. In addition, she joined Superintendent of Schools, Brock Falkenberg and Lake County School Board Chairman, Dr. Mark Cooper in sharing this inspiring program at the California School Board Association Conference in December. In both venues, the project received enthusiastic feedback for the measurable results already being achieved.
The Hero Project is made possible by the generous donations from the following allies: St. Helena Hospital Clearlake, Sutter Lakeside Hospital, Redbud Health Care District, Health Leadership Network, Lake County Office of Education and First 5 Lake County.
“We are so grateful to the leadership of these dynamic organizations for supporting us and committing to action to inspire parents in Lake County,” Mascari said.
For more information about the Hero Project contact Hero Project Headquarters at 707-262-4133. Visit the website at www.lakecountyheroproject.com.
