Shirley Hunt
Co-Founder, Program Manager
I have always felt happiest outside and can often be found running, hiking, cycling, skiing, or paddling. Instinctively, I have always known the benefits of green exercise for mental and physical health, and I am thrilled that a growing body of research is affirming those benefits. With those benefits in mind, I love working with community members to launch new initiatives that reduce barriers to getting active outdoors. In 2008, I collaborated with a local photographer and community members to design a school-based nature photography program for kids called Focus on Nature. In 2016, I seized another opportunity - this time to work with our community to design and launch nature-based running (and walking) programs to support women in managing their mental health.
Inspiration for Up and Running Guelph came from a UK program of the same name, but the Guelph version has grown and evolved over the years thanks to the incredible dedication and skills of our volunteers, staff, and board. I have worn multiple hats for the organization over the years, including Chair, acting ED, and volunteer mentor, and now Program Manager! I am incredibly proud to be part of a team that is so committed to sharing the benefits of green exercise with our community.