My name is Aprylle Gilbert. I am an endurance runner and author of three albums of music and an autobiography entitled Good Enough for Myself (2013), about the crazy mishaps which led me to where I am today. I am also the mother of two beautiful and successful young ladies ages 19 & 22. Because I was a teenage run-away, I want to help kids develop self esteem and get a better start in life than I did. I experienced many difficult challenges throughout my life which have taught me that life-building skills need to be developed in early childhood in order for kids to become confident, successful adults.
“Coast to Coast for Kids” is a transcontinental fund raising campaign dedicated to benefiting low income kids. All funds raised are tax deductible and go directly to Washington United Youth Center, a program providing support, mentoring and programming for disadvantaged kids in San Jose. The Center is located in one of San Jose’s highest crime neighborhoods. Funding will help youth have a safe space. The wish list of the center includes funding to open longer hours to neighborhood kids on a daily basis. They would also like to add academic support, a music studio, and health and fitness activities such as a running club. It is my goal to provide funding for these activities along with training, athletic gear for the kids, and group outings to the many beautiful bay area trails, parks and open spaces. These motivating and inspiring activities will get the kids away from the city, off the streets, and give them a fresh perspective”.
Beginning May 11, 2015, I intend to begin a transcontinental journey running from town to town across the United States along US Route 6. My goal is to run 30-50 miles per day to raise money for disadvantaged kids. As a reward for sponsoring my run, donors will receive gifts of my CD’s and my book which I will donate 100% to the campaign. I also plan to raise awareness for the campaign by reaching out to communities along the way and inviting them to join the movement and run with me.
By raising money and awareness for Washington United Youth Center, I will be contributing to youth advocacy in my own community while helping to build confidence, self esteem, and leadership skills in our youth. At the same time I will be fulfilling a goal of my own: a dream of running from coast to coast. I am hoping my run will develop connections and build a network for community activism. I want to encourage young people to make health and fitness a priority and inspire them to dream big.