COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
GSG is proudly associated with Challenges Into Opportunities, an organisation dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. Our mission is to develop initiatives that promote physical education, healthy lifestyle choices, and social and emotional wellbeing.
At CIO, we recognise the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment that fosters community growth and development. We offer an alternative to negative influences and self-destructive behaviours. Through education, awareness, and early intervention, we also aim to prevent and assist in management of chronic health conditions.
Challenges into Opportunities has developed Main Event, a boxing-inspired fitness wellbeing program for ATSI youth aged 12+.
Mentorship is the cornerstone to the success of Main Event. Coaches are graduates of the program, who model CIO values and foster success through ongoing support, motivation and goal-setting. The mentor’s role is to provide guidance and direction to assist their mentee throughout the program.
George St Gym Community delivers free fitness classes for the SA ATSI community. Outcomes include reduced social isolation, improvements in mental health and wellbeing, prevention of chronic conditions as well as assisting existing conditioning.
Group classes are programmed by Exercise Physiologists and led by ATSI Exercise Science professionals.
“When I get to training, I instantly get an energy boost and feel at home. 6 months ago I was very unfit and unhappy, I didn’t feel like doing anything because of my social anxiety but this program has helped me a lot. I feel like a different person, have very high energy and an overall better outlook on life”
“I had an addiction before Main Event, but as I train more, come into the gym and push myself it motivates me to quit. I’ve loved the gym and energy ever since I first came and in the future I see myself competing, mentoring and motivating others to be their best”
“Since doing Main Event’s sessions I have become more mentally aware and have a good mindset towards physical activity. It has helped me stay away from violence and street fighting as I now use my anger in a positive way through boxing. I have stayed away from smoking and drinking because I now have a group of friends with the same mindset and we all train together”