James Madison University
college of health and behavioral studies

Empowerment3 - Families | Professionals | Community

Empowerment3 (E3)

Center for Physical Activity and Wellness for the Underserved


About E3

Mission

We seek to empower individuals and their families, professionals (in-service and pre-service), and communities, using the vehicles of physical activity and mentorship.

What We Do

E3 conducts programming, research, training, and support to improve the physical and mental health as well as the quality of life, of underserved populations.

Who We Serve

E3’s health promotion efforts serve Individuals with disabilities, older adults, chronic conditions, refugees, at-risk youth, and many others.

Research

E3 explores questions across participants, families, pre-service/in-service professionals, and communities. E.g., barriers to participation; improvements in physical and mental health, movement behaviors, and social determinants of health; knowledge and efficacy changes. We are open to other research interests and partners that enhance our ongoing work.

Opportunities within E3

E3 is excited to offer volunteer, fieldwork, and paid opportunities for the 2023-2024 Academic Year

  • Volunteer and Fieldwork
  • Student worker (part time)
  • Graduate assistants and Post Doctoral Fellowship
  • Research and Interprofessional Partner

Enroll in an Upcoming Program - Spring 2024

E3 Programs

Overcoming Barriers

Weekly Physical Activity and Nutrition Mentorship Programs

Ages/Population: 2-99 Individuals with ANY Disability
Offerings: Fitness for All, Kidnastics, Challenger Baseball, Superhero Training, Dinner Club, etc.

OrthoAbility (New)

Ages/Population: 2-99; children and adults with physical disabilities across Virginia and Nationwide
Offerings: Face to Face or Virtual Weekly Mentorship, Activity Packet and Calendar for at-home activities

OrthoAbility Flyer

THRIVE

(Transforming Health through Relationships via In-Person and Virtual Environments)

Turning Homes into Physical Activity Spaces through Mentorship & Social Connection

Ages/Population: 2-99; Citizens of all ability levels w/ health (e.g. diabetes) and movement needs
Offerings: Asynchronous Activities, Virtual Programs/Events, and/or Face-to-Face Opportunities

THRIVE Participant Guide (PDF)
THRIVE Clinician/Service Provider Guide (PDF)
THRIVE Educator Guide (PDF)

Shenandoah Valley Inclusive Wellness Coalition

Building Community Capacity to Support Wellness for All

Ages/Population: Individuals w/ disabilities, families, wellness organizations, advocacy organizations
Offerings: Training, Technical Assistance, and Promotion of Member Organizations’ Opportunities

THRIVE Cerebral Palsy (Regional and National)

Ages/Population – 2-100; children and adults with cerebral palsy

Offerings: Connected Wellness, Individualized Fitness and Wellness, and Small Group Classes

Program Guide

Connected Wellness

Description: Take Control of Your Own Physical or Emotional Health Powered by NexJ Health, our virtual health care platform along with a health coach – available to

Ages/Population: 12-100; adolescents and adults with disabilities, persons dealing with a chronic health condition, older adults, and caregivers

Offerings: App-based, web-based, or phone calls

Program Guide