Strengthening Family Bonds Through Fitness: The Vision of Stronger Together
In our fast-paced digital world, the need for genuine family connections has never been more crucial. Benjamin Colas, an educator and entrepreneur, has a refreshing vision that aims to transform Saturday mornings in Cleveland by promoting family fitness and interaction. His initiative, Stronger Together, offers a unique opportunity for parents and children to bond, exercise, and enjoy quality time together—screen-free.
A Unique Fitness Approach
Colas will present his concept at the Cleveland Leadership Center’s Accelerate: Citizens Make Change competition on February 26. He envisions free parent-child workout sessions in local parks, where families can engage in fun yet challenging activities like bear crawls and crab walks. This initiative is not just about physical fitness; it’s about creating an environment where families can laugh and grow closer together.
Understanding the Challenge
As the founder and director of Forest City Academy, Colas understands the difficulties that parents face in balancing work, life, and quality time with their children. “As a parent, I know that parenting can sometimes feel isolating. Time is limited, and many popular venues aren’t enjoyable for adults,” he reflects. Stronger Together presents an alternative that prioritizes engagement and health over distractions.
A Thoughtful Design
The workout routines are carefully crafted to be enjoyable for children while offering physical challenges for parents. Colas draws from his experiences as a parent and educator to ensure the activities resonate with families looking for meaningful experiences.
Building Community Connections
The fitness model for Stronger Together is not only practical but also scalable. Colas plans to kick off classes in accessible locations, such as Edgewater Park or Public Square, and expand to various pop-up events throughout Greater Cleveland. “My goal is to partner with local community champions who can help identify suitable venues for these classes,” he explains.
A Proven Track Record
Colas is familiar with the Accelerate competition; he previously won in 2016 for his KinderKits, which helped parents prepare their children for kindergarten. In 2022, he pitched another concept, Ascend, aimed at supporting working parents. These experiences have taught him the importance of community and collaboration in launching innovative ideas.
A Broader Educational Philosophy
Colas’s educational journey is non-traditional. He trained with Teach for America, worked in various schools, earned an MBA from Ohio State University, and completed a residency at Cleveland Heights-University Heights School District. His background gives him a holistic view of the needs of families and students.
He believes that education should extend beyond academics, fostering resilience, confidence, and health in children. “Stronger Together addresses not just physical fitness, but encourages families to grow closer through shared challenges,” he emphasizes.
Conclusion
Colas aims to create a supportive environment for Cleveland families where they can prioritize both health and connection without added costs or complexities. By winning funding through the Accelerate competition, he hopes to offer an affordable and accessible way for families to enjoy quality time together, filled with activity and laughter—no screens necessary. As communities seek to strengthen family ties, initiatives like Stronger Together pave the way for healthier, happier lives.
