Running for New York City Kids

September, 2008

The Exchange Visitor Program is pleased to announce Lisa Intini as September's Exchange Visitor of the Month. Each month, we select an exchange visitor who has made an effort to get involved in his/her community and explore American Culture.

Lisa Intini, 26 of Toronto, Canada, is a J1 Exchange Visitor in New York City. Lisa came to the United States back in April to train in the banking industry and truly loves New York City and everything the city has to offer. Lisa also enjoys running and exercise-a hobby she's using to benefit a very good cause. Lisa and a coworker signed up for Team for Kids, a youth running charity that improves health, combats obesity and enhances personal development of children from low-income communities.

"A coworker told me about Team for Kids and we signed up together," Intini said. "In Canada, I used to be involved with the Credit Valley Hospital Foundation-as my family members are active volunteers. I picked Team for Kids because it's a great way to help children within the community and around the world stay healthy and fit. I have always been an athlete, so I am happy now to use my athletic ability to help others." She trains with the Team for Kids group three times a week in Central Park and in other areas of the city. So far, Lisa has completed one race (the Nike Half Marathon) for Team for Kids and finished in the top half of 10,000 people. With her sights set a bit higher, Lisa plans on running the full NYC marathon on November 2, 2008. That's 26 miles (or 42 km) of nothing to sneeze at!

But aside from the intrinsic value of keeping fit and helping kids stay healthy and happy, Lisa experiences the added bonus of connecting to her community-which is not as easy as it sounds in city of 8.2 million people.

"Getting involved in a charity and racing has helped me meet new people and learn new things about the city," Intini said. "It has also motivated me to be active and get involved in more sport groups, like volleyball. It has also shaped my experience on a personal level. I have been able to see many beautiful places within NYC due to the trails we run. And people I have met in the charity have now become close friends of mine."