In keeping with its commitment to excellence in the area of Physical and Mental Health for the African American family, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. was recently awarded a grant from the Institute for the Advancement of Minority and Multicultural Medicine. The Prince George’s County Alumnae Chapter was chosen to implement the grant for the sorority. Having accepted the charge, we are now dedicated to the year-round service of childhood obesity prevention and reversal in the African-American community. The TORCH (Taking Ownership and Responsibility for Childhood Health) Program is a means to ensure that prevention and reversal begins with collective ownership and responsibility for childhood health as fostered by education, demonstration, and collaboration with community partners. TORCH will serve as a platform to engage youth in physical activity while providing resources to improve and maintain children's health in Prince George’s County.
The TORCH program is designed to promote awareness and subsequent prevention and reversal of childhood obesity through educational forums that will encourage an increase in the amount and intensity of exercise performed, promote healthy food choices, build positive self-images in youth, and help them to achieve or maintain a healthy weight. The goals of the TORCH program are (1) to decrease weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), and blood pressure of overweight and/or obese children ages 10-18, and (2) to encourage healthy weight maintenance and prevention of excessive weight gain/obesity for those children who are not overweight or obese.
Towards that end, TORCH will host the following interactive body image, fitness and nutrition events throughout the sorority year.
Sat., September 5, 2009 “Ask the Experts” Open dialogue and Question and Answer session with a panel of certified health professionals to gain knowledge and dispel myths about health and fitness. Read more...
Sat., October 3, 2009 “5K Run/Walk for Childhood Obesity” Physical activity initiative to involve youth and families; Proceeds benefit childhood obesity research and education in Prince George’s County. Read more...
Sat., November 7, 2009 “Kids in the Kitchen” Demonstration of quick and easy meals/snacks that adolescents and teens can prepare themselves, including healthy holiday treats for the season. Read more...
Sat., December 5, 2009 “Home for the Holidaze” Fitness expo showcasing exercise that can be easily performed at home with a focus on avoiding (or at least minimizing) extra holiday pounds while school is not in session. Read more...
Sat., January 2, 2010 “Biggest Loser Challenge” Competitive weight loss challenge for individuals, pairs, and family teams, including incremental weigh-ins and online support. Read more...
Sat., February 6, 2010 “Boxing Fitness Workout Session” Fitness session facilitated by a certified boxing fitness trainer incorporating basic punches, mitt work, kicks, jumping rope, sparring, etc. Read more...
