Our Mission: To Make a Difference

The Fitness Initiative Targeting (F.I.T.) Kids program is a school-based education program that is designed to increase awareness of the risk factors of heart disease. As part of the program, fifth graders are asked to voluntarily fill out a questionnaire, which is used to compile data and assess the risk factors in these students. The F.I.T. kids program was launched in response to several surveys showing that 25 percent of kids in Michigan are overweight, compared to just over 15 percent nationally. In addition, 7 percent of Michigan youth also have high blood pressure.

All fifth grade students in Manistee County schools who choose to participate are assessed. The assessment includes a pre- and post-test on heart health, a dietary questionnaire, and a physical activity questionnaire. Screenings are also conducted, including blood pressure, body compositions, and total cholesterol tests.

Phase 2 of F.I.T. Kids targets previous 5th-grade participants with re-assessment for cardiovascular risk factors in 8th grade. The second phase of the program continues to improve the participants’ knowledge of cardiovascular risk factors and reinforces behaviors that were introduced to students and their families earlier.

The F.I.T. Kids program is an important resource to our community. Our children are the future and by teaching them how to take care of themselves at a young age, they have a better chance to grow and be healthy adults.