Wild Adventures helps fight childhood obesity

Valdosta , Ga . – Obesity is the second leading cause of preventable death behind smoking and the state of Georgia ranks sixth highest in the U.S. for obesity. Youth Becoming Healthy Project, a nonprofit organization committed to enriching youths' quality of life through nutrition and fitness education, has teamed up with Wild Adventures Theme Park to host “Adventures in Motion Day” at the park Thursday, April 27, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

NFL player Todd Williams and other athletes will be on hand to enjoy the event and participate in a meet-and-greet. Williams is the tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, after spending three years with the Tennessee Titans. He played college football at Florida State University.

During the event, booths will be set up in the park's concert area giving out information on how to get and stay healthy. Some of the participating organizations include the VSU Wellness Committee, the Public Health District-Youth Division, the American Heart Association and the Girl Scouts. Health-conscience door prizes, such as pedometers, jump ropes, footballs and frisbees will be given away during the event. A singing group from Dougherty County High School , Gabriel & TNRP, will provide musical entertainment and there will be a “Dance off the Pounds.” Proctor & Gamble, Coca-Cola and the Subway at 4626 Bemiss Rd are co-sponsoring the event.

Southwest Georgia has the overall highest percentage of overweight individuals, with 67.6 percent of adults being overweight or obese. One-third of middle school students are overweight and today's children could be the first generation to have a shorter lifespan than their parents due to the obesity crisis and increase in related chronic diseases.

“Obesity-related illnesses, such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer and heart disease cost more than $2.1 billion every year to treat,” said Pamela Jackson, executive director of the Youth Becoming Healthy Project. “As we raise awareness about the dangers of obesity and provide valuable fitness information, we are ensuring our youth a healthier and more productive future.”

CONTACT: Tiffany Lewis, public relations coordinator
Telephone: (229) 671-4802
Fax: (229) 559-1539
E-mail: tlewis@wild-adventure.com