Supporting the health of children through movement — building resilience, confidence, and life-long healthy habits for families in our community.
Empowering children and families to move, grow, and thrive — together.
Strong Grounds Foundation exists to support the overall health of children through movement, starting right here in Stafford Township. We believe every child deserves the opportunity to develop a strong body and an even stronger mind.
We empower families with the knowledge and resources needed to foster healthy lifestyles — working hand-in-hand with the programs already making a difference in our community.
From fun runs to beach bootcamps, we create joyful movement experiences that inspire kids to love being active — not just for a season, but for life.
We give families a reason to step away from screens and connect with each other and their community in meaningful, active ways.
By partnering with existing local programs, we amplify impact and foster a healthier, more connected Stafford Township for everyone.
The Strong Grounds Foundation was born from a simple idea between two longtime friends who shared a passion for giving back to their community.
Dave Smithman, owner of Yellow Dog Coffee Roasters, and Jon Pandolfo, a Stafford physical education teacher and personal trainer, reconnected with a goal in mind: to raise funds for a "Fun Run" benefiting students at Stafford Intermediate School.
Both brought a unique background to the conversation. Dave had a strong history of supporting local youth programs through fundraising efforts, while Jon had spent years leading school-wide initiatives focused on increasing physical activity, goal setting, and building confidence in his students.
What started as a single event quickly evolved into something bigger.
They recognized an opportunity to make a deeper, more lasting impact — one that extended beyond a single fundraiser. Together, they envisioned an organization dedicated to empowering young people in Stafford Township through movement, education, and community support.
From that vision, the Strong Grounds Foundation was created.
Today, the foundation is committed to helping children and teens build not only stronger bodies, but stronger minds — instilling confidence, resilience, and lifelong healthy habits that will guide them toward a bright and successful future.
Dave & Jon — where it all started, at Yellow Dog Coffee Roasters
Strong Grounds Foundation is powered by community — local sponsors, grants, donations, and volunteers who believe in giving every child the foundation they need to thrive.
Support our programs and help us reach more children and families across our community.
Show up and make a difference — we need enthusiastic people at our events this summer.
Partner with us as a local business and connect your brand to a healthier community future.
Bring your family to an event this summer — all ages, all abilities, all welcome.
From story time to beach bootcamps, our summer series gives the whole family a chance to move, connect, and have fun — right here in our community.
A hands-on library program for Pre-K through 1st grade. Kids explore healthy habits, taste nutritious foods, and get moving with music and movement every session.
Weekly all-ages group workouts led by local instructors and Stafford Schools PE staff. Move as a family, then refuel with healthy snacks from local vendors.
Family fitness nights and beach bootcamps across three beautiful LBI venues — sunset workouts, sand-and-surf fun, and community connections.
We work arm in arm with local law enforcement to build our community stronger and healthier — from supporting the DARE program to coordinating community events geared toward a healthy mindset and active lifestyle for Stafford's children.
Collaborating with school administration, PE departments, and extracurricular leaders, we encourage every student to develop a healthier lifestyle and stronger mindset — creating a more positive culture in our schools and community.
With 13 years as a Physical Education teacher, personal trainer, and group exercise instructor in Stafford, Jonathan brings deep passion for youth fitness. He has organized Fun Run and Day at the Bay events and believes in building physical and mental foundations for children. A Barnegat native living in Stafford for 14 years, he competes in local triathlons.
Dave is the owner of Yellow Dog Coffee Roasters, a Manahawkin-based brand built on quality coffee, community, and hard work. Through that journey, Dave found a calling beyond the coffee shop — expanding his mission with Strong Grounds Foundation to support youth health and wellness. He lives in Manahawkin with his wife Cait and children Jack and Reese.
Mike is the General Manager of 84 Lumber in Manahawkin. He serves on the Board of Trustees for David's Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation and is President of the Pinelands Soccer Association. Through Strong Grounds, Mike hopes to increase youth participation across a variety of programs with a strong focus on physical and mental health.