The Impact, a wellness program that will be implemented at Hartselle Junior High School this school year, received a boost on Friday when it received a $1,185 grant from State Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur.

Orr said the money came from a TVA in lieu of taxes fund and will used to purchase stationary bikes for the program’s wellness center, which is located in Pettey Center.

“I’m impressed with the work that already has been done to promote a healthier lifestyle for staff, students and the community as a whole,” Orr said, “and I can see it leading to the development of positive personal habits and money saved in the long run.”

The mission of The Impact is to provide an environment that educates and supports individuals in their pursuit of living a healthy lifestyle through physical activity and good nutritional habits.

Indoor facilities for the program are being provided in spaces that were previously occupied by Hartselle High School’s wrestling room and weight training room. Students will have access to the facilities during and after school and the public will be allowed to use them when school is not in session.

“Fundraising is a big part of having the wellness center fully operational when school reopens,” said program coordinator Shane Alexander. “We’re about halfway where we need to be and still looking for donations.”

Alexander said he is recruiting a team of student and faculty runners to represent The Impact in future 5K run competitions.

“Our goal is to sponsor four 5k fundraisers during the school year with the last one reserved for Hartselle runners only,” Alexander said. “After school starts, our runners will begin an intensive eight-week training program to prepare for the Liz Hurley 5k in Huntsville Sat., Oct. 18.”

“Our staff and teachers are very excited about getting the program underway,” said HJHS Principal Dr. Robbie Smith. “We’re a lot like a big family that supports each other. We’re ready to give The Impact our best shot.”

“We recognize that a program of this scope will require patience and fortitude,” Alexander noted. “We’ll get it going at a slow pace and allow some time for it to gain momentum. We anticipate that it will be working in the other schools in our system within five years.”

Donations to The Impact may be made in person at the school office or mailed to: The Impact, Hartselle Junior High School, 904 Sparkman St., Hartselle, AL 35640.