For Immediate Release: November 16, 2009

Contact: Kemia Sarraf Phone: (217) 691-4441 E-mail:  genh.sarraf@gmail.com

Generation Healthy (genH) celebrates one-year anniversary

SPRINGFIELD -- On Monday, November 16, 2009 Generation Healthy (genH) Coalition hosted a press conference at Ridgely Elementary School in Springfield, IL.

One in three Illinois children is either overweight or obese. Data from Springfield Public Schools reveal that >26% of incoming kindergarteners were overweight or obese, >35% incoming 5th graders were overweight or obese and >38% incoming high school students were overweight or obese.

In October 2008, genH was formed and founded by Kemia Sarraf, MD, MPH,. in collaboration with the Sangamon County Medical Society Alliance and others as a member-driven coalition working to improve all children’s health and combat the childhood obesity epidemic through education, partnerships and programs focused on better nutrition and increased physical activity. Members include individuals, groups and organizations from a broad cross-section of Springfield and surrounding communities who are actively involved in the Coalition.

At the press conference, Dr. Sarraf reviewed genH programs and accomplishments and introduced special guests Springfield Mayor Timothy Davlin; Springfield Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Walter Milton Jr.; Ball-Chatham District Superintendent Robert Gillum; St. John's Hospital CEO Bob Ritz; and Sangamon County Medical Society President Dennis McManus, MD.

Dr. Sarraf said, “This has been a tremendous year for genH, which had its beginnings just one year ago. Great work is being done and we have much to celebrate. Please join us as we continue the important and rewarding work of improving the health and wellness of our children!”

A genH General Assembly meeting will be held on Friday, November 20. An introductory session for newcomers will be held from 3 - 4 p.m. followed by the regular General Assembly meeting from 4 – 5 p.m. at the Dove Conference Center, on the 1st floor of the Prairie Heart Institute in St. John's Hospital.

The introductory session will provide a broad review of genH, including its mission, goals and programs. It is designed for the newcomer interested in participating in the Coalition or learning more about how genH programs can be implemented in schools or organizations.  At the General Assembly meeting, Action Teams will present the progress of their work to-date and identify needs and opportunities. This meeting offers an opportunity for all members to provide input and feedback, and/or select a program in which to participate.