NCNW and NIH Initiative - FIT for Life Obesity Project
The National Council of Negro Women and the National Institute of Health has joined forces to reduce obesity in black families. Unfortunately being over weight is not perceived as a major issue in the black community and sometimes the dangers of obesity are minimized by nicknames or excuses for this terrible physical condition. In light of this fact, NCNW and NIH have created an initiative geared to decrease obesity in the African American Community. This national project will focus on our youth ages 11-13.
Objectives
- To educate youth about living healthy lifestyles
- To encourage youth to make changes in their eating and physical habits
- To conduct community forums to increase knowledge of the dangers of obesity
- To conduct parent training groups
“One in five African-American children are overweight. This has long-term health implications for these children,” said Dorothy Height, Ph.D., Chair and President Emerita of the NCNW. “Now is the time to act. Today’s training enables our members to go back to their communities and not only deliver these programs but train others to deliver them to parents and young people to put them on the path to better health.”
The NCNW Tampa Metropolitan Section is leading the implementation of this health initiative for the State of Florida, under the guidance, direction and facilitation of Mrs. Geraldine Twine. To support this very important health initiative, several community organizations, churches and health professionals in the Tampa Bay area have joined the movement along with NCNW and NIH to help our children live productive and healthier lives. Listed below are the names of our current partners:
- The City of Tampa Parks and Recreation – Cyrus Green Staff, Belmont Heights
- Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
- Jack and Jill
- Health Professionals: Personal Trainer, Julie Williamson & Nutritionist, Carolyn Collins
- Other Organizations (Check with Mrs. Twine and Mrs. Miller
» Read more about NCNW and
NIH Initiatives