We can all stand to get fitter and lose a few pounds. Especially me.
That’s why I’m proud to join with the mayors of Oak Creek, Cudahy, St. Francis, Franklin, and Greenfield to present the South Suburban Mayors’ Fitness Challenge.
The goal: Improve the health of our local communities by partnering with wellness-focused businesses and organizations to put on a series of free fitness, educational and social events.
Stay tuned for a list of participating businesses and organizations, but it promises to be a good group — and a great community-building event.
Oak Creek Mayor Steve Scaffidi developed the concept for the Challenge in 2012 to not only get area residents on the path to wellness, but also to promote area businesses that were already committed to that mission.
The inaugural Oak Creek Challenge, which focused on weight loss, took place between November 2012 and February 2013. More than 450 residents signed up to participate, and 15 events — including workouts, nutrition workshops, and cooking demonstrations — were hosted. As a community, Oak Creek cumulatively lost nearly 1,000 pounds. The second Challenge, which focused on overall fitness, began in September 2013 and finished in January 2014. More than 700 people registered, and 34 different events were held, building on the successes of the first year.
I am proud South Milwaukee is part of the third Challenge.
More information is to come, including signup information and details on a kickoff event in September. Start by liking the Challenge Facebook page, where you can check out regular updates once we get going.
For more information, you may also contact South Milwaukee Health Administrator Jackie Ove, who is leading this effort on our end. (Thanks, Jackie for your support.)
