FITCHBURG — Katlyn Fenuccio, a physical education teacher at Fitchburgh Public High Schools, has been awarded a $2,000 grant from Voya Financial, Inc. as part of its Unsung Heroes program. This recognition is due to her innovative proposal for a Strength Training program aimed at helping students develop lifelong fitness confidence through proper exercise techniques.
Grant Supports Innovative Fitness Education
Fenuccio is the only recipient from Massachusetts and one of just 50 winners selected from hundreds of applications across the United States. The grant is intended to help fund her program, which addresses the need for accessible fitness education among students who often lack access to gyms and professional guidance.
With the funding, Fenuccio plans to transform the existing weight room into a functional and educational space. This initiative aims to provide students with equitable access to strength training, thereby promoting safety, technique, and engagement. “By improving these aspects, the project will foster lifelong fitness habits, prevent injuries, and build confidence,” Fenuccio stated.
In addition to the initial grant, Fenuccio will compete for one of the top three prizes in the Unsung Heroes competition, which includes grants of $5,000 for third place, $10,000 for second place, or $25,000 for first place. The overall program has awarded over $6 million in grants to K-12 educators since its inception 29 years ago, recognizing innovative teaching methods and their positive impact on students.
Empowering Students Through Fitness Education
Fenuccio’s program, titled “Strength Training for Student Success,” serves as a vital resource for students who may not otherwise have the opportunity to learn about fitness principles. She believes that by equipping students with knowledge and skills in strength training, they can develop not only physically but also mentally and emotionally, paving the way for potential careers in health and fitness.
Braeden Mayrisch, Vice President of Impact & Culture at Voya Financial, emphasized the importance of recognizing educators like Fenuccio: “This award is an opportunity to recognize the creativity and tireless dedication that educators demonstrate in the classroom each day. We are proud to celebrate these unsung heroes and the significant impact they make in the lives of their students and communities.”
For more information about this year’s winning projects and previous recipients, visit the Unsung Heroes website at www.Voya.com/page/Voya-Unsung-Heroes. The Unsung Heroes program is part of the Voya Foundation, which aims to enhance quality of life in communities where Voya operates by providing grants and fostering partnerships focused on financial literacy and education.
