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ACFN Has Prominent Role at Metro Denver Black Church Initiative Host Health Fair
The Center for African-American Health at the Metro Denver Black Church Initiative hosted their 4th Annual Faith & Health Ministries Collaborative Health Fair on February 18. ACFN communicated the importance of nutrition education and physical activity to the more than 600 participants at the community health education outreach event that successfully gathered. ACFN sponsored a step show competition featuring original rap/step routines with a nutrition and physical activity message. The step show, Step’n for Life, had a unique twist: dancers wore step counters and stepped to words and music with health and nutrition messages. The competition was judged not only on moves, but also by the number of steps incorporated. This was a way to show participants that movement can be part of their everyday culture and activities. Youth groups from churches, clubs and schools participated. ACFN also exhibited health and wellness materials along with presenting a portion size demonstration including favorite foods that are culturally relevant. “Participants took great interest in what a true portion of meat looked like, comparing it to a deck of cards that fits in the palm of your hand,” said Jo Ann Pegues, R.D., M.P.A., Focus on Diabetes project manager, Center for African American Health. Participants also learned how to put healthier twists on favorite family recipes. The event also featured a children's challenge course sponsored by Kaiser Permanente and cardiovascular education information sponsored by the Denver Bronco Alumni. As ACFN moves forward with the ADA and its focus on at-risk childhood populations, this event is one that can be honed and replicated for other programs targeting African-American youth and affecting the health of thousands of African-Americans. |
