Ron Soeder, President-Boys & Girls Clubs of Cleveland
On Thursday I attended the obesity conference held by a partnership with Slate and the Cleveland Clinic. I was very impressed by the quality of the panels and their perspective on the significant increase in childhood obesity and the health impacts on young people. To hear about children that are facing heart problems and the effects of Diabetes at age 10 bring to light the significance of the issue.
As a service provider of high quality after-school program we have a unique perspective on some of the solutions being considered. Urban school districts, and particularly Cleveland, provide little or no physical education, recess or after-school sports for K to 8 students. I applaud the effort to improve the quality of food provided for breakfast and lunch. As we look to provide green space, bike paths and other play areas it is imperative that we consider the impact of youth violence in our urban neighborhoods. I am often asked if you would like to have bike donations. I have unfortunately been declining them. It is mainly due to youth becoming targets for the bikes to be stolen and kids being beaten up in the process. Safe neighborhoods will need to be provided if we expect youth to get out and get active.
We are a part of the solution by providing quality after-school programs in urban neighborhoods. We actively provide nutrition information and provide recreational opportunities that keep kids active. Through the Cleveland Foodbank and our Kids Café program, we are making sure youth get a balanced meal daily. We also have gardens at three of our clubs. It is an uphill battle, but the Boys & Girls Clubs of Cleveland want to be a part of the solution.
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