Joy-Southfield preparing to launch a childhood obesity prevention program

The childhood obesity epidemic threatens to make this the first generation of youth who will have a shorter life span than their parents. In 1964, 5% of children were obese; in 2009 that number has grown to 20%. An additional 10% of youth are overweight. Data released by the Centers for Disease Control in Jan, 2010, show that 43% of obese teenagers already have abnormal cholesterol levels - placing them at greatly increased risk for developing life-threatening heart disease.

We agree with First Lady Michelle Obama that this situation can be corrected. We have assembled a team of local partners who will help us establish an evidence-based program to educate youth about healthy options and to make those options more readily available within our community. Program elements will include: school- and community-based preventive education; a community gardening program with youth involvement; a local farmers market; increased access to exercise facilities; and increased access to healthy food through existing local stores. Check back for future updates. Post a reply if you are interested in volunteering to help support these programs.

Annual Dinner March 21, 2010

Come check out our 3rd annual "Visions of Joy" dinner and silent auction at the Detroit Yacht Club on Sunday, March 21, 2010 at 4PM. Click here to download the flyer and registration form from the Joy-Southfield website. Great food, live entertainment, scintillating conversations and a chance to support the community-building programs of Joy-Southfield CDC.