October 15, 2008
Young community members were encouraged to participate in Yup'ik dancing, a great form of exercise.
Family Health & Fitness Day recognized in Bethel
Story and photos by Tiffany Zulkosky
A celebration of the National Family Health & Fitness Day drew families to the Kilbuck Elementary cafeteria on Saturday, September 27, for an afternoon of educational entertainment.
Organized by Diabetes Prevention & Control, the event provided free glucose screening, informational booths on how to live a healthy lifestyle, and various activities for children and parents.
"This was Bethel's fourth year of hosting the event," said Greg Moses, Diabetes Outreach Coordinator. "Because we see more families staying in, rather than becoming physically active, we believe this day will help encourage families to become active and live a more healthy lifestyle together."
Bethel Family Clinic and the Tundra Women's Coalition participated as booth vendors alongside YKHC programs: Dental; the Family, Infant, and Toddler Program; Immunizations; Healthy Hearts; Injury Prevention and Nicotine Prevention & Control. Activities included a booth for self-designed iron-on reflective tape, a visit from the Immunization Dogs Kusko and Slush, and various sessions of dancing (including hip-hop, swing, and Yup'ik).
Family Health & Fitness Day is a nationally recognized event celebrated on the last Saturday in September. Local organizations across America are in their twelfth year of promoting family involvement in physical activity, health screenings, games, and health information workshops.
For more information about becoming physically active and how to prevent chronic diseases like diabetes, contact the Diabetes Prevention & Control program at 1-800-543-6133 and ask for an Outreach Coordinator
