In 2004, several founding members of Wellness Coalition America began to brainstorm about ways the organization could address the growing childhood obesity problem. We debated, “What age group do we target first, and how do we make the program relevant and at the same time fun so kids will want to participate?” The answers didn’t come easily; the scope of the mission seemed daunting especially when you consider the following statistics:
The prevalence of overweight among children age 6 to 11 more than doubled in the past 20 years, going from 7% in 1980 to 18.8% in 2004. The rate among adolescents age 12 to 19 more than tripled, increasing from 5% to 17.1%.
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An estimated 61% of overweight young people have at least one additional risk factor for heart disease, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
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Children who are overweight are at greater risk for bone and joint problems, sleep apnea, and social and psychological problems such as stigmatization and poor self-esteem.
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Type-2 diabetes has increased 15-fold in children in the past 7 years. The CDC predicts that 1 in 3 children born in 2000 will become diabetic unless we make serious changes in children’s eating and exercise habits.
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85% of children diagnosed with type 2 diabetes have a body mass index (BMI) in the 85th percentile or above for their age and sex. |
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Overweight adolescents have a 70% chance of becoming overweight or obese adults. This increases to 80% if one or more parent is overweight or obese.
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We decided we could have the biggest impact on the age group between 10 and 15, which encompasses that often painful period known as middle school. Our goal was to equip these ‘tweens’ and early teens with basic information for achieving and maintaining total body wellness, and simultaneously plant seeds of self-empowerment to preserve their self-esteem.
The 7-week curriculum we developed, Operation Jump-Start: S.L.A.M.-Dunk Wellness™, follows a basketball theme. It focuses on ways we can properly move, fuel, rest and maintain our bodies and the benefits for each aspect of our being: Spirit, Looks, Actions and Mind (S.L.A.M.). The course helps teens understand that the foods they choose to eat and the amount of exercise they get each day directly impact their appearance, mood, self-esteem, and performance in school and in athletics.
Each week, Coalition founder Terrie Reeves, guest fitness trainers and professional athletes introduce the teens to a different, fun way to move their bodies. Following their workout sessions, the kids enjoy a wholesome snack while facilitators talk with them about eating a healthy diet, developing a positive self-image, and setting goals.
OJS - Youth Program Profile
OJS - Testimonials
Do you know a teen who would benefit from Operation Jump-Start: S.L.A.M.-Dunk Wellness™. For more information, contact Shira Capellini, Director of New Business and Program Development, at 704-525-7352, ext. 3076, or shira@wellnesscoalition.com.
