Together Counts is now part of the Healthy LifeStars organization whose mission is to educate and motivate children to lead active, healthy lives
Childhood Obesity is the #1 Problem facing children today. It is preventable.
A passionate group of volunteers founded the nonprofit in 2003 after their research identified the alarming growth trend in childhood obesity. Every state has seen an increase in the rate of childhood obesity, even Colorado where the growth rate is second highest in the nation. In the last 30 years childhood obesity has increased dramatically. One in three children are overweight or obese.
When children are overweight or obese they are more likely to have:
• Type 2 Diabetes
• Cardiovascular disease
• More absenteeism
• Lower academic performance
• Low self-esteem
• Higher healthcare costs
Center for Disease Control data showing Obesity Growth from 1999-2010
80% of obese children become obese adults
In addition to the human suffering, the health care costs are significant; estimated to be over $300 billion per year. It is estimated that each obese worker costs a company $644 more dollars per year in healthcare costs in addition to the cost of health-related absences from work.
The LifeStar Challenge is a Proven Program
With the vision of a scalable, cost-effective solution, a prevention program was developed for schools and youth serving organizations. Since our founding in 2003, The LifeStar Challenge has served over 24,000 kids.
The LifeStar Challenge program is different. It is an evidence-based and scalable program with a proven track record of measurable outcomes. It focuses on the child taking personal responsibility for goal setting, being active and eating right every day. During the program, the children create new habits through the model of learn, practice, experience and commit.
Big Benefits to Children
The benefits to children who participate in the program are:
• Improved cardiovascular fitness
• Reduced obesity / Improved body mass index
• Improved self-confidence
• Better academic performance
• Positive healthy habits, behavior changes in children and families
We are making a difference. Join us!