CAN DO Houston

Children And Neighbors Defeat Obesity 
la Comunidad Ayudando a los Niños a Derrotar la Obesidad

CAN DO Houston is a holistic community-based initiative that aims to prevent and diminish childhood obesity in Houston and surrounding communities.  CAN DO Houston LISTENS to the needs of the community and addresses physical activity, nutrition, and healthy minds in the community, school, after-school, home, and work environments based on the needs of the community.  The program utilizes existing resources and evidence-based practices and addresses gaps in services by enabling the broadest collaboration of individuals, institutions, and organizations.  CAN DO Houston is a combined effort of the Mayor’s Wellness Council, Houston Wellness Association, and many community partners.
 
CAN DO Houston Communities

The pilot for CAN DO Houston began in August 2008 in two Houston super neighborhoods: Sunnyside, and Magnolia/Lawndale Wayside. An elementary school and a park in each neighborhood are the anchor for CAN DO Houston and the initiative targets children 0-12 years of age and their caregivers.
 
CAN DO Houston Activities

CAN DO Houston serves as a coordinating center to promote and support initiatives based on community input.  Some of the initiatives of the CAN DO Houston pilot include:

• After– school programs with physical activity and healthy snacks
• Cooking Classes for parents and students
• Fitness and Nutrition Carnivals
• Grocery Store Tours
• Nutrition Education
• Parent Education
• Promoting physical activity in  the classroom
• Providing equipment to enhance physical activity
• School Garden
• School Staff Wellness
 
How to Become Involved in CAN DO Houston

CAN DO Houston can use your talent, skills, and/or resources.  If you would like to be involved or volunteer for CAN DO Houston, please contact Beverly Gor at bjgor@mdanderson.org or 713-563-2750.