Generation Fit

What is Generation Fit?

Generation Fit is an American Cancer Society program that encourages students ages 11 to 18 take part in community service projects that promote more physical activity and healthier eating among their friends and families, and in their schools and communities. Kids who take part come away better educated about good nutrition and the need to stay physically active, two important ways to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

How does it work?

Coaches, counselors, and youth group leaders can easily run the program with its detailed suggestions for 5 activities:

• Food for Thought: Trying New Recipes in Your Cafeteria
• Message Magic: Selling Healthy Eating and Physical Activity
• Lending a Helping Hand: Planning Meals for Those in Need
• Team Up for Good Health: Improving Habits with a Partner
• Let’s Get Moving: Making Physical Activity a Priority in Our Community

Students tailor these ideas to their own schools and towns, and they have been used in many creative ways. One group prepared a meal for a homeless shelter. Another group of sixth graders taught good health habits to younger students by taking them on walks and giving them healthy snacks. Students at another middle school got some of their favorite healthy foods added to the cafeteria menu.

What can you expect?

In addition to learning habits that can help them maintain good health for a lifetime, children who participate in Generation Fit also learn how to plan a community action, work together in a group, and carry out their plans with the help of adult leaders.

For more information about the Generation Fit Action Packet, contact your local American Cancer Society or call 1-800-227-2345.