Marvellous Iheukwumere is a sprinter that specializes in the 100 meter, 200 meter, and 4×100 meter relay and an Olympic hopeful. She took time out of her training schedule to visit the kids at Ashland Ranch Elementary School in Gilbert, Arizona. Read about her experience and why she gives back.

What was your volunteering experience like?
I had such an amazing time at Ashland Ranch Elementary School. The PE teacher planned great events (shadow tag, baton race, 50 meter dash, and hurdle obstacle) that were related to track and kept the kids engaged. She was an awesome moderator as well. I LOVED the kids, all 120 of them were great listeners, and had so much positive energy. It definitely warmed my heart!

Why did you volunteer?
I volunteered because I love children and part of the reason I’m still running track is because I want to continue to use my sport as a platform to serve as a role model to kids everywhere. I have always enjoyed working with kids and I had great role models as a child so I would love to be the same to a child who may not have any positive role models.

What about this charity resonates with you?
I’m drawn to the Let’s Move Active Schools cause because I believe that a healthy and active lifestyle is very important for young children. I believe that every child should have the privilege to play and also learn from sports. It opens up a lot of opportunities and surely has helped me to experience a lot of great things in my life so I want to help others to see how they can benefit from it.

What was the best part of your day?
The best part of my day was having a little girl walk up to me and say: “Miss Marvellous, you’re a grown up me.” This highlights why I love volunteering, and it made my day that in just a short time I impacted a child so much that they wished to be like me when they are older. Definitely motivated me!