Obesity and its related illnesses can be combated by good nutrition and physical activity. Joining with friends and family makes it fun.
The University of Houston’s “BOUNCE” program is planning a 5K Fun Run/Walk at 9 a.m., Saturday, April 21 at the UH Lynn Eusan Park. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. The event is open to all ages. Donations are accepted. Funds will benefit “BOUNCE Healthy Lifestyle Programs” designed to promote healthy eating, exercise and positive body image in Hispanic and African American youth.
“BOUNCE” is Behavior Opportunities Uniting Nutrition Counseling and Exercise, and includes a summer camp for minority middle school girls, which focuses on nutrition, exercise, body image and self esteem. The program, which began in 2005, was recognized by the Public Health Association as one of the best and innovative nutrition and physical activity programs in the state.
“Our nutrition and physical activity interventions go beyond the standard,” “said Norma Olvera, associate professor and director of “BOUNCE.” We foster the relationship between mothers and daughters, keep in mind the cultural perceptions of food, exercise and body image and make it fun to be healthy.”
The event is sponsored by UnitedHealthcare Heroes, Youth Service America, Community Health Choice, KOALA Health and Wellness Centers, Guanajuato Supermarket, Pulso 90, Hispanic Health Coalition, the UH Texas Learning and Computation Center, and the UH College of Education.
“UnitedHealthcare was pleased to award the University of Houston a $1,000 UnitedHealth HEROES grant for its BOUNCE program,” said David Milich, CEO of UnitedHealthcare of South Texas. “The grant was awarded to BOUNCE because its organizers clearly understand the health risks associated with childhood obesity and have developed creative solutions to fight obesity in neighborhoods and communities.”
For more information on “BOUNCE” visit http://bounce.uh.edu/
WHAT: UH “BOUNCE” 5K Fun Run and Walk
WHEN: Registration: 7:30 a.m., Event: 9 a.m., Saturday, April 21
WHERE: UH Lynn Eusan Park
For directions and parking information, visit http://www.uh.edu/campus_map/buildings/LEP.php