FOSTERING LEADERSHIP THROUGH CULTIVATING MIND, BODY, AND SOCIAL CONNECTION
RISE & THRIVE:
A Whole Person Wellness Program for 2SLGTBQIA+ Youth
Be Bold. Be Brave. Belong.
Rise & Thrive is an 8-week program for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 12–17 that blends movement, connection, and community. Each week offers a space to build confidence, nurture wellness, and experience the joy of showing up exactly as you are.
This isn’t fitness as usual—it’s about rising together and creating a future where every body deserves to thrive!
👉 Starts September 27 | 17210 106A Ave Edmonton
🪜 Tiered Pricing Model (Pay What You Can)
⏳ Limited spots available — register today.
Our Commitment to Consent and Safety: In the interest of protecting their human rights, we do not use images of minor-aged participants in our marketing and promotions.
Program Details
Who is this for?
Rise & Thrive is designed to primarily support 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 12–17 and their parents/caregivers. We understand that identity and orientation can be fluid (especially when you're young!), and so we warmly welcome participants from all backgrounds, ability levels, fitness levels, and identities, including those who are curious, questioning, and exploring who they are.
Where is the program located?
Rise and Thrive sessions will be located at the Action Potential Fitness Studio located at 17210 106A Avenue NW, Edmonton, Alberta.
Schedule and format
Rise & Thrive is an 8-week program that runs on Saturday afternoons begins on September 27th, 2025 and runs until November 15th, 2025. The program alternates between ‘Grow’ sessions (90 mins) — workshops paired with a parent support circle — and ‘Play’ sessions (60 mins), fun movement-based classes designed to help youth build confidence and connection.
Play Sessions: Weeks 1*, 3, 5, and 7 (60 minutes)
Youth Play-Based Fitness Classes: Fun, inclusive movement sessions designed to build confidence, energy, and joy through fitness that feels like play.
Week 1 (Program Launch) will also include a parent-information circle that will detail the program schedule and provide caregivers with an opportunity to ask questions and connect with each other.
Grow Sessions: Weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8 (90 minutes)
In addition to the weekly movement sessions, weeks 2, 4, 6, 8 will also include:
Youth Workshops, Speakers, and Guest Presentations: These interactive, learning sessions will focus on enhancing self-leadership, fostering resilience, and building community.
Parent/Caregiver Support Circle: These guided discussions and resource-sharing session are designed to help families support their teens and connect with one another. Circles will be facilitated by peer-educators and mental health professionals.
What does it cost?
Thanks to our hundreds of donors and sponsors, and the relentless efforts of our team of volunteers, we are able to provide this pilot session of the Rise & Thrive program for free. Families can opt to make donations to help support future program sessions, but there is not cost to participate in the fall intake.
Do I need to register and is parental consent required?
Yes, this is a registered program and parental consent is required. Because Rise & Thrive includes a fitness component, we are required by our insurance provider to have parental or guardian consent for all participants under 18. This ensures that:
Parents/guardians are fully informed of the physical activity involved
Youth are covered under our liability insurance while participating
We can provide a safe, transparent environment for both youth and families
Consent is a standard requirement for any program that involves structured movement and physical activity. It helps us protect your child, your family, and the program itself.
What if I can't attend a session?
We know schedules can be busy. If a participant needs to miss a session, that’s okay—every week is designed as a self-contained experience. While attending all sessions helps youth get the most out of the program, missing one won’t leave them behind.
For Grow Sessions, parents and youth can request a brief recap or resources from the facilitators. For Play Sessions, we encourage youth to simply rejoin the group at the next class—no pressure, no penalty.
About Rise & Thrive
Rise & Thrive is a collaborative initiative created by the Centre for Trauma Informed Fitness and Action Potential Fitness, in partnership with community organizations who share a commitment to equity and belonging.
The program is facilitated by 2SLGBTQIA+ professionals and allies who are passionate about ensuring every young person has access to supportive, accessible, and affirming opportunities for physical, mental, and social well-being.
This project has been in development for over a year, shaped by community input and guided by lived experience. The Fall 2025 session marks our pilot launch—a first step toward building a sustainable program that helps youth rise together and thrive together.
Rise & Thrive programming will take place at the Action Potential Fitness studio (17210 106A Avenue NW Edmonton), a 2700 sq foot barrier-reduction focused fitness facility equipped with: three separate fitness spaces; two private, low-sensory quiet spaces; gender neutral, accessible washrooms; a kitchenette; direct access to outdoor greenspace.
Our Pillars Of Health
MIND
We create space to think, feel, and reflect. This pillar explores identity, emotions, and self-expression through creative activities, discussion, and quiet reflection. It helps youth build self-awareness, confidence, and the language to better understand themselves and their experiences.
BODY
We believe that every body is worthy of joy and care. Movement is used not as performance, but as a tool for grounding, self-expression, and nervous system regulation. Activities are adaptable to all abilities and energy levels—whether we’re stretching, dancing, or just learning to listen to what our bodies need.
SOCIAL CONNECTION
We grow best together. This pillar focuses on building friendships, practicing communication, and experiencing community in a space where every voice matters. Through games, shared projects, and storytelling, we nurture belonging, mutual support, and the skills to show up for others and ourselves.
What We'll Explore
WEEK 4
We Are What We Do
Looking at how our actions reflect our values, beliefs, and intentions and how these shape our impact.
We reflect on how our choices, habits, and energy create ripple effects. This week explores intention, impact, personal accountability, and what it means to lead through everyday actions.
WEEK 6
We Are Stronger Together
Exploring connection, collaboration, and the ways we learn in intersectional communities.
We dive into the dynamics of trust, community care, rupture and repair. This week is about learning with and from each other, and building relationships that make space for difference and growth.
WEEK 8
We Are What We Carry Forward
Honoring what we’ve built, celebrating growth, and imagining what comes next.
In our final week, we take time to reflect on everything we’ve shared, learned, and created together. We celebrate our journey, embrace our growth, and envision how we’ll carry it into the future.
WEEK 1
We Are Who We Say We Are
Exploring identity and self-definition in a space where we choose how we show up.
In Week 1, we set the tone—creating space for curiosity, safety, and honesty. Through conversation and creative exploration, we reflect on who we are, how we’ve been seen, and how we want to be known.
WEEK 4
We Are What We Do
Looking at how our actions reflect our values, beliefs, and intentions and how these shape our impact.
We reflect on how our choices, habits, and energy create ripple effects. This week explores intention, impact, personal accountability, and what it means to lead through everyday actions.
WEEK 6
We Are Stronger Together
Exploring connection, collaboration, and the ways we learn in intersectional communities.
We dive into the dynamics of trust, community care, rupture and repair. This week is about learning with and from each other, and building relationships that make space for difference and growth.
WEEK 8
We Are What We Carry Forward
Honoring what we’ve built, celebrating growth, and imagining what comes next.
In our final week, we take time to reflect on everything we’ve shared, learned, and created together. We celebrate our journey, embrace our growth, and envision how we’ll carry it into the future.
WEEK 1
We Are Who We Say We Are
Exploring identity and self-definition in a space where we choose how we show up.
In Week 1, we set the tone—creating space for curiosity, safety, and honesty. Through conversation and creative exploration, we reflect on who we are, how we’ve been seen, and how we want to be known.
WEEK 4
We Are What We Do
Looking at how our actions reflect our values, beliefs, and intentions and how these shape our impact.
We reflect on how our choices, habits, and energy create ripple effects. This week explores intention, impact, personal accountability, and what it means to lead through everyday actions.
WEEK 6
We Are Stronger Together
Exploring connection, collaboration, and the ways we learn in intersectional communities.
We dive into the dynamics of trust, community care, rupture and repair. This week is about learning with and from each other, and building relationships that make space for difference and growth.
WEEK 8
We Are What We Carry Forward
Honoring what we’ve built, celebrating growth, and imagining what comes next.
In our final week, we take time to reflect on everything we’ve shared, learned, and created together. We celebrate our journey, embrace our growth, and envision how we’ll carry it into the future.
Your Program Leaders
About Toni and Zita
Toni Harris (They/Them, CSEPT CPT, NASM CES) and Zita Dube-Lockhart (She/They, MACP, CSEP CPT, NASM CES) are the co-founders of the Centre for Trauma Informed Fitness and co-owners of Action Potential Fitness.
This award-winning duo has spearheaded dozens of community-based programs aimed at reducing barriers to fitness, promoting body autonomy, and advancing equity in health.
With a combined background in sport coaching and fitness training, adaptive exercise, counselling psychology, and trauma-informed care, Toni and Zita have earned national recognition for their pioneering work in creating inclusive, shame-free fitness spaces.
Their approach blends evidence-based science, social justice, and a deep commitment to dignity, helping individuals move with confidence, curiosity, and joy — no matter their identity, background, or ability.
Your Rise & Thrive Instructors
James (He/They)
CSEP CPT/NASM CES; Child & Youth Specialist
Nate (He/They)
CSEP CPT/NASM CES; Adaptive Movement Specialist
Linden (They/Them)
M.Ed; Inclusion Specialist
Sarah (She/Her)
Certified Personal Trainer; Inclusion Consultant
We can't wait to take this journey with you!
Frequently asked questions
Who can join Rise & Thrive?
Rise & Thrive is open to youth ages 12–17 who identify as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in any way. This includes those who are questioning or exploring their identity—no labels required.
Do I require parental consent to join?
Yes, parental or guardian consent is required to participate in Rise & Thrive.
Because the program takes place in a fitness facility and includes optional physical activities, all participants must have a signed consent form and safety waiver completed by a parent or legal guardian. This is necessary for liability and insurance purposes—even if a youth chooses not to participate in movement-based portions.
If you have concerns about privacy, safety, or conversations with caregivers, please feel free to reach out to us directly—we’re happy to talk through options and provide support.
What if I have to miss a week?
We totally understand that summer schedules can be hectic! While we encourage full participation, we ask that youth commit to attending at least 3 of the 6 sessions in order to register. This helps us build a consistent, connected group—and ensures that limited spots are available for those ready to engage. If you know you’ll need to miss a specific week, just let us know in advance.
Is there a cost to attend?
We use a pay-what-you-can model to ensure access for everyone. No one will be turned away due to cost. If you have questions about payment or need support, just reach out—we’re happy to help.
Who is running this program?
Rise & Thrive is facilitated by a team of queer and trans exercise and mental health professionals from the Centre for Trauma Informed Fitness, with special guests from across the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. The lead facilitators are Zita Dube-Lockhart (she/they) and Toni Harris (they/them), who are also the co-owners of Action Potential Fitness.
Is this program accessible?
Yes. All abilities are welcome to attend. The facility is wheelchair accessible, and low-sensory spaces will be available during each session. If you have specific accessibility needs, please contact us and we’ll do our best to accommodate.
Where does the program take place?
All sessions happen in person at Action Potential Fitness (17210 106A Avenue NW, Edmonton). This is a welcoming, trauma-informed space designed to be inclusive and accessible for all youth. Please note: Week 6 may involve an off-site excursion.
What kinds of activities will this include?
Each week includes a mix of creative projects, group discussions, body-based movement (like stretching, dance, or rest), and connection-building activities. You can choose how you participate—there's no pressure to share or move in any specific way.
Do I have to participate in physical activity?
No. Movement is offered as a supportive option, but it's not mandatory. All movement is low-pressure and adaptable, and there will always be space to rest, sit out, or participate in other ways.
What else should I know about this program?
Rise & Thrive is built on a foundation of intersectionality, recognizing that our identities, experiences, and access to safety are shaped by many factors—including race, gender, disability, neurodivergence, and body size. This program actively incorporates anti-racist, body-liberating, and trauma-informed approaches. We center dignity, justice, and belonging—not just as values, but as everyday practices.
CONTACT
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