Christamore House, a family and community center in the Haughville neighborhood, has introduced healthy activities to its after-school programming to address the issue of childhood obesity and teach a healthier lifestyle.
The program was developed by four Butler University students as part of a public relations project. The students also enlisted the help of the Butler University Health and Recreation Complex (HRC) for its health and nutrition knowledge.
William Scott, executive director of Christamore, is excited to have the help of the Butler University HRC.
“This is the perfect opportunity to reinforce the value of healthy living, good nutrition and how routine exercise can play a part of averting childhood obesity,” Scott said.
Earlier this month, Christamore House hosted two successful events organized and led by Butler students. Twenty-one children attended one event about soccer skills, and 27 children and five parents attended the other event, a basic exercise session.
Beth Lohman, assistant director of recreation and fitness, shared her enthusiasm about the program.
“Teaching fitness to others can change their lives for the better – keeping them healthy, giving them goals and allowing them to appreciate their bodies,” Lohman said.
The goal of the campaign is to encourage kids to move more, eat more fresh foods and interact more with the community. To reinforce these ideas, the kids and participating parents will be asked to sign pledge cards promising to maintain a healthy lifestyle. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 17 percent of children ages 2 to 17 are considered obese.
For more information on Christamore House visit www.christamorehouse.org.
