A.I.M. to Empower is the Lemon Street Market #GiveLocal partner organization for the rest of October! When customers opt to round up at the register, all proceeds will be donated to A.I.M. to Empower in order to create connection and opportunity through the practices of yoga. We spoke with Beth Weaver, A.I.M. to Empower Executive Director, about some ongoing and upcoming projects.
What does A.I.M stand for?
Asana, Inquiry, and Meditation—These are three components of Yoga. Asana: the physical practice of yoga access to vitality, power, and freedom through the physical practice of yoga; Meditation: access to awakening and getting present to life unfolding; Inquiry: access to discovery and new possibility through curiosity.
Who does A.I.M. to Empower serve?
A.I.M. serves all people with a focus on folks who may not otherwise have access. We were not created with a specific demographic in mind as we recognize the impact that yoga has on all. Organically, our programming has been growing with school-aged children from toddler classes to high school as well as after school programs, and in detention centers for both teens and adults.
Why is A.I.M to Empower important in our community?
Our curriculum focuses on the whole person and the ultimate greatness of each person. We understand that many people have or have had obstacles in life and rather than teaching to or around that obstacle or trauma, we choose to teach to the present moment and the greatness that is and can be.
We are about building and nurturing community. We collaborate with other non-profits such as The Boys and Girls Club, The Lancaster Rec Center, and The Lancaster Early Education Center. We are supported by Evolution Power Yoga and work with their Teacher Trainees to inspire work within their individual communities.
Can you share a story of how A.I.M has impacted someone?
YES! During a class at Lancaster County Prison, a student was pulled from class to be released that day. Something that I naturally assumed would be good news was not in this instance and the woman was obviously fearful. I was surprised to see her the next week and eager to hear her share.
When she was pulled from class, she began to have a panic attack, remembered the breath work that she was taught and was able to self-regulate. She prevented the attack was then able to advocate for herself and clear up the situation. A naturally timid person, she was proud to be able to speak for herself.
How can members of the community get involved?
The simplest way may be to commit to a monthly donation through Paypal or Facebook. 5, 10, or 25 dollars a month can do a lot to support our programming. We are always looking for teachers, as well as consultants. As a fledgling non-profit, we are looking for help in marketing, branding and web design. We would love a few more folks who love to plan events and are skilled in fundraising and are actively searching for a Board Treasurer to take over for our next term beginning in January. We can find a spot for anyone who has a passion for the work!
Coming up: Our November/December #GiveLocal partner organization is VisionCorps!
The post #GiveLocal: 5 Questions with A.I.M. to Empower appeared first on Lemon Street Market.