The COALITION for Health is an organization that was founded by Renea Gray, of The Veggie Pals and VP Farmers Market. Ms. Gray felt the need to pull together several community leaders, non- profit organizations, and corporations for the purpose of raising awareness of childhood and adult obesity in a way that would be life changing to communities citywide in the Houston area. Her vision was to see organizations focused on health and wellness as well as the betterment of the people of Houston come together and creating three life changing annual events:  Youth Nutrition Conference  Summer Nutritional Camps  Steps To Better Health Walk-a-Thon It is the responsibility of the coalition to make sure that these three events are successful for the communities of Houston, Tx. The collaboration, donations, and hard work of these organizations make it possible for each event’s success. THANK YOU COALITION FOR HEALTH FOR MAKING A DIFFERENCE!

Why focus on Childhood Obesity? Childhood obesity is a national epidemic, with Houston among the top ten “Overweight Cities,” according to the American Obesity Society. One in five children between the ages of 6 and 17 are overweight and are at risk of developing obesity-related problems such as diabetes and heart disease. While processed foods, unhealthy portions and other fast options are appealing, children are faced with health and dietary issues as a result. The Veggie Pals program is a fun way to help youth become knowledgeable about the basic food groups, make healthy food choices, and understand the importance of physical activity.

MISSION STATEMENT We are committed to providing engaging educational events that will impact families across the nation to seek a healthier lifestyle and environment for our children.

C.O.A.L.I.T.I.O.N. Childhood One’s childhood is the time that every individual learns patterns, priorities and how to make decisions. Many of us have embraced improper patterns, priorities and are making poor nutritional choices due to cultural traditions, financial restrictions, and or simply the lack of knowledge. Therefore, childhood obesity has become a type of generational stigma that is continuously passed on. We must put a stop to it now by educating ourselves and our children and by applying our knowledge.

C.O.A.L.I.T.I.O.N. Obesity Obesity is when a person has an excess amount of body fat. It is a chronic medical disease that could lead to high blood pressure, diabetes, gallstones and many other illnesses. It is not something that is easily treated because most gain the weight back. A lifestyle change must occur. We must put a stop to it by teaming up, educating, providing support and resources.

C.O.A.L.I.T.I.O.N. Attention The time is now for the community to come together and proactively give CHILDHOOD OBESITY the ATTENTION that it needs. Fast foods and the lack of exercise are contributing factors to childhood obesity. This poor nutritional lifestyle is the leading cause to juvenile type 2 diabetes. The convenience of an unhealthy lifestyle could lead to serious medical attention. We must get the communities’ attention.

C.O.A.L.I.T.I.O.N. Lifestyle This fight against childhood obesity is not about any particular diet but about a lifestyle change. It is about becoming knowledgeable and aware of what is being placed into your body. It is about adopting a lifestyle of making healthier choices with portion sizes, healthier ways to prepare the foods, nutritional values, and the importance of physical exercise.

C.O.A.L.I.T.I.O.N. Introduction The introduction of a new lifestyle of nutrition must be an ongoing enjoyable experience for our children. The owners of all of the major theme parks knew the importance of introducing a new ride often to keep the attention of the people. The same level of importance is upon us to introduce interactive ways to keep this new lifestyle fun and exciting for everyone.

C.O.A.L.I.T.I.O.N. Teaming Up The Coalition for Health is an ultimate opportunity for the leaders of our community to team up once a year and educate, empower, and motivate a healthier lifestyle to combat this fight against childhood obesity.

C.O.A.L.I.T.I.O.N. Important!  The children are our future.  A nutritional lifestyle results in a healthy mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing.  Letting the community know how much we care. `

C.O.A.L.I.T.I.O.N. Opportunity This is your opportunity to be recognized for providing the following towards the fight against CHILDHOOD OBESITY:  Education  Motivation  Community Awareness  Unity This will be an opportunity to work towards saving future generations.

C.O.A.L.I.T.I.O.N. Nutrition! New Lifestyle! Now is the time! Say “NO!” to Childhood Obesity!

 C- Childhood  O- Obesitiy  A- Attention  L- Lifestyle  I- Introduction  T- Teaming Up  I- Important  O- Opportunity  N- Nutrition