Diabetes Outreach Network
Abstract
Oral and Poster Presentations by MDON staff

Title: Michigan Action for Healthy Kids: A Regional Effort

Author: Julia Walters, RD, CDE

Abstract:
Michigan Action For Healthy Kids (MAFHK) was formed as part of a nationwide initiative, Action For Healthy Kids (AFHK), which is dedicated to improving children’s nutrition and physical activity in schools. One of the outcomes of MAFHK included the adoption by the Michigan Department of Education of two policies regarding healthy vending snacks and daily physical activity. In addition, a Toolkit was designed to assist schools to implement Michigan’s Healthy Food and Beverage Policy.

The next step involved taking the mission of the larger MAFHK to the local level.  At the direction of MAFHK, a call to action was initiated at the State meeting.  Michigan was divided into five regions. The Western Group was developed with over thirty interested participants. The initial goal that was accomplished was to take the Toolkit to local Food Service Directors and educate them on its use.  In addition, the regional group participated in the development of a “Show To Go” that could be shared among MAFHK members and taken to schools throughout the region. The long-term objective is to impact as many schools as possible in our region, encouraging them to form a Coordinated School Health Team and complete Michigan’s Healthy School Action Tool (HSAT).

Taking the mission of AFHK to the State level and, finally, the local level is a successful way to accomplish the mission of improving children’s health, reducing childhood overweight and, hopefully, type 2 diabetes. Interested participants that are passionate can make things happen at a local level.