Flint, MI — The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the emotional health of communities nation-wide and caused an increase in sedentary lifestyle habits for everyone, especially the youth. In an effort to positively impact the health outcomes of our future leaders, Harambee Wellness has curated a free event to encourage physical activity amongst children and families in a fun way.
From 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Saturday, October 9, Harambee Wellness is hosting its 4th Annual Active & Healthy Kids Day inside the Coolidge Park Gymnasium. In previous years, the organization has hosted this event to raise awareness about childhood obesity in the form of a one (1) hour family fitness class. However, the impact of the pandemic, along with a growing need for practical ways that empower the local youth to be active, prompted the expansion of the event to include more activities and resources from local health organizations.
Childhood obesity is a serious problem in the United States. According to the CDC, one in five school age children and young people (6 to 19 years) in the United States have obesity, which has immediate and long-term effects on their physical, social, and emotional health.
“It’s well known that the pandemic has adversely affected adults, but we must not forget about the children,” says Marquita Adams, certified personal trainer and founder of Harambee Wellness, LLC.
“Virtual learning for school-aged youth resulted in more screen time, anxiety, social isolation and reduced the ability to engage in regular physical activity, such as recess and gym,” Adams added. :This has exacerbated an already alarming obesity epidemic amongst the youth.”
Obesity is preventable and children develop healthy habits by watching adults; family fitness is a key component for cultivating generational health. The event encourages parents and caregivers to bring children of all ages for field day games and fun, engaging alternatives to traditional exercise routines. There will also be free food, family yoga, and food demonstrations throughout the event. Attendees will also have an opportunity to walk away with amazing prizes and giveaways to keep the “healthy and active” momentum going at home. Community partners will be onsite to provide information about local health and nutrition resources.
The 4th Annual Active & Healthy Kids Day is powered by Harambee Wellness. The event is free to attend. More information and registration is available on the website www.HarambeeWellness.com.
Who: Harambee Wellness
What: 4th Annual Active & Healthy Kids Day
Where: Coolidge Park Gymnasium, 3701 Van Buren Ave, Flint, MI 48503
When: 10 a.m. – 1p.m. Saturday, October 9
Sponsored By: Freeman Elementary Community Education Initiative (CEI), In the Beginning: 1st Ward Project and Uma Strong Marshall Outreach
About Harambee Wellness
The vision, mission, and core values are all centered around togetherness. “Harambee” is a Swahili word meaning, “all pull together.” Founded in January 2017 by Marquita Adams, a Flint native, with the purpose of cultivating community by creating fun health and fitness experiences. Harambee Wellness provides personal training, online training, group fitness classes, fitness parties, corporate wellness solutions and meal planning. www.HarambeeWellness.com
