Across the nation obesity is on the rise and physical activity is on the decline. The Healthy Community Initiative is Martinsville City and Henry County’s response to this serious problem. The initiative encourages physical activity, good nutrition and development of healthy behaviors.

The Healthy Community Initiative is currently offered in after school programs provided by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Martinsville Henry County, Carlisle School, FOCUS on Youth, Stanleytown Baptist Church Afterschool Program (Site #2 at Bassett Community Center), and the YMCA of Martinsville Henry County.

As a participant in the after school program, your child can participate in all Healthy Community Initiative activities at no additional cost.

• Health Screening: A registered nurse will assess each child’s height, weight, blood pressure and measurements in September, January, and May.

• Physical Activity: Children can participate in Dance Dance Revolution, CatEye Game Bikes, Twister Moves, three-on-three basketball, and other physical activities.

• Nutrition Education: Nutritionists will teach children about a number of nutrition topics including, but not limited to, the food pyramid, healthy eating, holiday eating, and weight control. Included will be activities such as making fruit smoothies.

• Education Series: The Healthy Community Initiative is partnering with community agencies to bring educational activities to the after school program.