Confronting the Epidemic through Nutrition Research and Policy
Thursday, June 18 to Friday, June 19, 2009
Washington, D.C.
Confront Childhood Obesity Now!
In the United States, one in three children is either overweight or obese. With obesity linked to several of the leading causes of death in the United States, experts fear an exponential increase in several life-threatening health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Help save our children’s lives and the future of our country. Be a leader in confronting childhood obesity in your community. Below are actions you can take individually or as part of a community group to fight against childhood obesity:
Join Your Local Childhood Obesity Prevention and Intervention State Group: Network and collaborate with National Conference on Childhood Obesity Conference participants to confront the epidemic in your area. Here are some tips for organizing a community group.
Sign up to become a member of your Childhood Obesity Prevention and Intervention State Group.
Attend School Board Meetings: Find out when and where your local school board meetings are held. Attend the school board meetings and discuss why healthier school food and vegetarian options are important. Download an informational flyer to distribute at school board meetings and other relevant gatherings.
Meet with Your Elected Officials: Gather your Childhood Obesity Prevention and Intervention State Group members and other community stakeholders (parents, health care professionals, students, etc.) to meet with your elected officials to discuss healthier school meals. Click here to find your elected officials.
Encourage Healthy Meal Options at Your Neighborhood Schools: Contact PCRM for help and information to champion low-fat healthy options at your child’s school.
Write Your Member of Congress: Send your senators and representative letters to express your concern about the issue of childhood obesity in your community and to explain the importance of healthier school food (plant-based options) in confronting the epidemic. Your Childhood Obesity and Intervention State Group could organize a letter writing campaign. Click here to learn how.
Sign the School Lunch Petition: Sign the school lunch petition and gather signatures from your friends, family, colleagues, and fellow community members.
Join the Healthy School Lunch Revolution!: Visit the Healthy School Lunch Revolution Web site for more ways to become a grassroots activist for nutritious meal options in your community. |