Topeka, Kan. – Washburn Athletics is teaming up with Envista to strengthen its community outreach program. Bods Care, empowered by Envista, officially launches 3-5 p.m. Saturday, April 27 in the Washburn Indoor Athletic Facility on the university campus.
“Washburn is incredibly proud to partner with Envista as it invests in our student-athletes as well as youth in our local community,” said Dr. JuliAnn Mazachek, president, Washburn University. “Envista’s support will allow us to involve more elementary and middle schools in the Topeka area and find additional ways to engage Washburn student-athletes. The impact of this program will be realized for years to come.”
Bods Care, which began in 2018, is a community outreach program that sends student-athletes into local elementary and middle schools for pep rallies or special visits. This school year alone, Washburn student-athletes and coaches have visited 27 schools and interacted with more than 12,000 kids in the surrounding area.
“We are thrilled to be joining forces with a university who shares the same passion and dedication to making a positive impact on the communities we serve,” said Ron Smeltzer, president and CEO of Envista. “Our partnership with Washburn Athletics, through the Bods Care initiative, signifies our joint commitment to mentorship, engagement and education. Together, we aim to empower future generations and positively contribute to the well-being of our community.”
Loren Ferre, director of athletics at Washburn University, says the development of student-athletes goes beyond their sport and the classroom. Understanding the importance of community service is vital to becoming a well-rounded individual who is ready to make a difference in their community after graduation.
“We are grateful to Envista for embracing this program and the role it plays in our community,” said Ferre. “Through this partnership, we continue to enhance the experiences of our student-athletes as well as local youth. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
Saturday’s official launch of Bods Care, empowered by Envista, includes a celebration for Envista employees, their families and a group of Washburn student-athletes. Games, food and short program highlight the agenda.
Local elementary schools may contact Washburn Athletics to get on the Bods Care schedule for the 2024-2025 academic year. Visits and events will resume at the start of the fall semester.
