Taylor Miller was a typical kid who struggled with his weight. But when he decided to enlist in the Army, he decided to get fit — and he did. He shed more than 60 pounds and gained tons of self-confidence.

The Saratoga Springs High School graduate’s life was cut short in June 2010 by a suicide bomb attack in Afghanistan. He was 19 years old.

Taylor Miller

In his honor, a nonprofit organization called Taylor’s Heroes has been created for local teenagers who want to be more active and healthy. The program includes three free months of fitness training, nutrition information, and exposure to a couple of sports of your choosing.

Do you know a teenager who might be ready to take the first step toward a healthier lifestyle? Are you that person? Are you a parent who’d like to make this a family effort? 

To find out more about the organization and how to apply for the next fitness session that begins the week of March 4, call 518-894-1658 or go to www.taylorsheroes.org.

This isn’t some come-on to join a gym. It’s the real deal. I know his mom, Leslie Miller, who founded Taylor’s Heroes with his aunt and others. What they are trying to do is terrific. As the website says, “Taylor’s Heroes would like to help you find the success Taylor experienced while you are young and have a lifetime to enjoy it.”

The website explains:
“Our mission is to help children who want to get fit accomplish their goal by providing them with the resources they need to succeed in a fun, non-competitive, easy format. We understand that we are only a small part of the equation because the desire must be within, and for the best chance for success, the parents must be involved in the entire process – it’s a family effort. That’s why we require that parents also commit to the program, this way we create healthier and happier families, not just children.
“We work closely with local organizations, like the Saratoga Y, to create a program that fits each child’s interests, and will give them the best chance for success. Families also receive nutritional counseling and cooking classes.
“Taylor’s Heroes is completely free to the children we accept into the program. We are committed to helping as many children and families as we can so spread the word!”

It’s that simple. The next step is yours.