Center Helping Obesity in Children End Successfully, Inc.

The Center Helping Obesity in Children End Successfully, Inc., commonly abbreviated as C.H.O.I.C.E.S., is a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing childhood obesity and related health issues in the United States. Established in April 2002, the organization focuses on providing resources and support to help children and families in Georgia adopt healthier lifestyles.

Mission and Purpose

C.H.O.I.C.E.S. aims to combat the rising rates of obesity among children and adolescents by promoting nutrition education, healthy eating habits, and active lifestyles. Recognizing the significant impact of obesity on long-term health, particularly the increased risk of heart disease and Type 2 diabetes, the organization seeks to empower families with the knowledge and tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle changes.

Programs and Initiatives

• C.H.O.I.C.E.S. Community Teaching Kitchen: Introduced in 2018, this initiative serves as a multifaceted resource for families. It offers cooking classes, nutrition workshops, and culinary arts training, emphasizing the concept of "food as fun and medicine."

• Mobile Food Pantries: The organization runs regular mobile food pantry operations to provide fresh food to low-income families, addressing nutritional deficiencies and promoting healthy eating.

• Snack and StoryTime Series: This program combines literacy with nutrition education by providing books and culinary kits to schools. It teaches children about the importance of fruits and vegetables, while also fostering a love for reading.

• S.L.I.T.E. Program: The Sisters in the Lifestyle Intervention Teaching Exercises (S.L.I.T.E.) program targets specific health goals for its participants, using innovative approaches to achieve those objectives.

Financial Overview

C.H.O.I.C.E.S. primarily relies on donations, which contribute significantly to its revenue. In recent years, contributions have comprised nearly the entirety of its income, indicating a strong reliance on public support for its operations. The organization has maintained a modest asset base, using its resources efficiently to fund programs and services.

Impact

C.H.O.I.C.E.S. has made a notable impact in its community by engaging thousands of volunteers, serving numerous families through mobile food pantries, and providing educational resources to schools. Its commitment to addressing health disparities, especially among African American populations, aligns with broader efforts to reduce racial inequities in health outcomes. Through its community-driven approach, the organization continues to play a vital role in promoting healthier lifestyle choices among children and families in Georgia.

Governance and Leadership

The organization places a strong emphasis on governance and board leadership practices. It conducts formal orientations for new board members and encourages diversity in recruitment to ensure diverse perspectives and effective oversight. Despite challenges in the broader health landscape, C.H.O.I.C.E.S. remains committed to its mission and continues to evolve its programs to meet the changing needs of the communities it serves.