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Community Health Network of Connecticut
Members Providers About CHNCT Community Connections

Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies

Let’s face it; the activity level of children is at an all time low. Obesity and type 2 diabetes are on the rise. Physical activity is on a downward spiral. As a result, many children are at risk for serious health conditions.

CHNCT wants to do our part to change this. Therefore we created our Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies initiative. This initiative strives to educate, unite and build healthier communities. This is done through an annual, daylong event. The event promotes physical activity, proper nutrition and the importance of having fun.

Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies is a sister program of CHNCT’s Choices initiative.

Each spring, we bring our Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies event to a well-deserving school. Our most recent event was held on May 28, 2009 at Central High School in Bridgeport. And it was our most exciting yet!

Famed film, TV and action star Michael Jai White returned to his alma mater to inspire those living in his childhood community. During his visit, Michael reassured all that dreams do come true.

Michael spread his message of hope to all of Central’s students and staff. Later in the day, he personally met with 50 students who had won the chance to meet him. They did so by winning either a mental or physical challenge the week prior. As winners, they were able to mingle with Michael. They were also given signed pictures of the star.

In addition to Michael’s visit, students were treated to a surprise appearance by MTV’s Status Quo dance group. Status Quo was the runner up from MTV’s America’s Best Dance Crew, Season One.

Since leaving Bridgeport, Michael has been featured in dozens of films and TV series. His credits include The Dark Knight, Why Did I Get Married?, Why Did I Get Married Too?, “The Legend of Bruce Lee” and “Wonderland.”

Michael Jai White (left) stands with Central High School Principal Alejandro Ortiz (right) and Shantel Campbell (middle), a student who was identified by Mr. Ortiz as having made remarkable academic improvement.

Bridgeport Superintendent John J. Ramos (left) greets Michael Jai White (right) at Central High School.

Michael Jai White jokes around at Central High School.

Past Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies events:

May 30, 2008

In 2008, Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies partnered with the Bridgeport Board of Education. The event was held at Columbus School. It celebrated the reading achievements of 750 students.

The students received free bicycle helmets. They also learned tips on safety and nutrition. They also had the opportunity to dance and try yoga. They received a lesson on eco-friendly cleaning. There was also a parade, farmer’s market, games and more.  

The 2008 Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies event occurred as part of our four-month health and safety campaign.

Sept. 30, 2006

The 2006 event was held on September 30. CHNCT hosted more than 30 community-based organizations and had more than 200 attendees. All learned about healthy eating. They saw robotics demonstrations, and took part in basketball competitions, hula-hoop contests and much more.
Copyright 2009 © Community Health Network of Connecticut, Inc. All rights reserved.