1,000 Miles for Natural Helpers

Hi! I'm Rhys Walter, and I'm a 10th grader at Harborfields High School in New York.

This year, I set a goal to run 1,000 miles. I've been running Cross Country and track for four years, and I love challenging myself.

I'm also part of the Natural Helpers program at Harborfields High School. The Natural Helpers program is based on a simple idea: Within every school, an informal "helping network" exists. Students with problems naturally seek out other students, and occasionally teachers or other school staff whom they trust.

In my school, the Natural Helpers program provides training to students and adults who are already perceived as "natural helpers". It gives them the skills they need to provide help more effectively to young people who seek them out.

We meet once a month to talk and to learn how to really listen so we can help our classmates.

Each year, there is a Natural Helpers retreat on Shelter Island where students learn important listening skills, and we learn how to better support each other.

I've decided to blend my love for running with my passion for Natural Helpers. The funds I raise as I work to reach my goal of 1,000 miles will go directly to offset the cost of the Natural Helpers retreat for anyone who can't afford it. No one should be denied the experience simply because it is a financial burden.

Here's hoping to reach my goal, and help as many in my community as I can!

You can follow my progress on the Strava app: Rhys Walter