Did you know the life expectancy rate of our children is now less than our life expectancy rate as adults? Poor health choices and limited incomes have led to an increase in childhood obesity, a decrease in physical activity, and more.

To change this statistic, you can join their local wellness committee, Healthy DeKalb, to make a difference in DeKalb and in our great state, Tennessee. This is committee is participating in the Healthier Tennessee Communities initiatives through the Governor’s Foundation for Health and Wellness, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enabling and encouraging Tennesseans to lead healthier lives. The Foundation strives to increase the number of Tennesseans choosing to be physically active for at least thirty minutes up to five times a week. The Foundation also promotes incorporating a healthy diet and reducing the number of people who use tobacco.

By joining Healthy DeKalb, your local Healthier Tennessee Committee, you are making a difference. Joining us means attracting better quality jobs by increasing productivity and reducing absenteeism in the workforce. Joining us means the rates of behavior-related chronic health conditions are lowered, helping to reduce healthcare costs and increase participation in health and wellness programming. Joining us means less illness and a healthier lifestyle. We’re working towards a better quality of life for you and your family at home, in school, and in the community.

How can you join? Healthy DeKalb meets monthly and strives to increase program participation with an online presence, attending civic meetings, and more. We have seven initiatives we have launched for 2019 to get our community healthier with families of all socioeconomic statuses in mind. These initiatives are open to everyone by participation, spreading awareness of programming, and supporting each effort. Walk Across Tennessee, Community Center Fitness Nights, Walking Club at Northside Elementary, Jr. Chef classes, Water challenge at Northside Elementary, Faithful Families eating smart and moving more, and CATCH My Breath.

The group would love to have you join their effort. Find them on Facebook to reach out about getting your community healthier. https://www.facebook.com/healthydekalbtn/.