YMCA GO is a comprehensive afterschool wellness program for children that provides solutions for reversing childhood obesity trends, curbing risky behavior, improving academic performance
In the neighborhood surrounding the W.L. Hutcherson branch of the YMCA of Greater Tulsa, health disparities are so great, that the life expectancy of the community is 14 years less than the rest of Tulsa. • Oklahoma ranks 45th in the nation in the overall health of its citizens. • An estimated 25% of Tulsa County ninth-graders in public schools do not make it to graduation; in Tulsa Public Schools, this figure rises to 40%.
The scientifically based curriculum of GO addresses 3 major Skills: Motor, Health-Enhancing, and Social Development. The overall goal is to promote the well-being of each student and guide them to be physically active for life.
GO is producing excellent results. Last year students reduced their BMI. Academic results of GO program participants have been equally impressive. Students improved reading levels by 4 months per quarter compared to their peers.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
