This week’s Ambassador Award goes to Kelly Hansen! Kelly has a passion for staying active and helping others. She has been a dedicated volunteer for Team Ortho Foundation since August of 2009 and played a large role in helping Team Ortho Foundation prepare for the 2010 Minneapolis Marathon.

TO: What is the most satisfying part of volunteering?
KH: I love getting to meet new people whether it's for a day or a lifetime, and you always feel good when you're contributing to a worthy cause.

TO: How did you first become active in Team Ortho events?
KH: My first event with Team Ortho was the Minneapolis Duathlon. I moved to the Twin Cities in August of 2009 and thought the Duathlon sounded like a great way to get out and meet people as well as exercise.

TO: What is it about Team Ortho that makes you want to volunteer your time to our foundation?
KH: Team Ortho has become more than just volunteering for me it's my "adopted family". Moving to a state where I didn't know anyone was scary, but this organization has made my transition easy. I love volunteering because it allows me to get to see people again and cheer on runners trying to realize their dreams.

TO: How long have you been participating in running/biking events?
KH: For years my main focus was Lacrosse. I had a scholarship to play in college, but after 12 years of playing I wanted to focus my attention on other activities. I participated in my first triathlon in 2008 and the Monster Dash was my first half-marathon. Team Ortho even inspired me to start training for my first marathon in my hometown.

TO: Do you have any recommendations on how to recruit people to have an active lifestyle?
KH: Start out small. I tore my MCL in January of this year and I was sidelined from doing any serious exercise. I took great enjoyment though in going out for walks. I got to see more of the city and get some fresh air in the process. People don't have to be marathoners to have an active lifestyle. Pick something that gives you enjoyment and go out and do it.

As a thank you to Kelly and all of her hard work, we will be sending her a Team Ortho fleece.