Running America: United Way Partners with Athlete to Fight Child Obesity

After the devastation of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, New Orleans natives have had to deal with a number of problems such as relocation and home renovations.  Unfortunately, there is a growing issue being overlooked that hits families at home, in New Orleans and across the country: child obesity.

Thankfully, someone is eager to bring attention to this problem.  Running America will start Saturday, September 13; on that day ultra-athlete Charlie Engle will begin a 45-day run from San Francisco to New York City, partnering with United Way to raise awareness of—and dollars for—children’s health and wellness, especially programs that target children’s obesity.

Obesity among children has nearly doubled in the last decade. More than 9 million children in the United State s are either obese or overweight because today's children are not getting the necessary exercise and activity for good health. Charlie will be working with United Ways across the country to raise awareness about programs that help young people make positive nutritional and behavioral choices. It’s his way of living united and inspiring others to join the movement.

Charlie plans to run an average of 70 miles a day as he crosses the country, and he’ll pass through many United Way communities on the way.  Click here to check out Charlie’s itinerary.

Even if your city is NOT on Charlie’s route, your local United Way and your community can be part of this exciting venture and raise awareness about children’s health and wellness by tracking Charlie’s progress, raising dollars for mileposts along the route or staging a companion run in your own community. Stay tuned to United Way Online for more information about Running America, including ideas about how you can join in.