BGCCM, battling obesity with an ‘I can’ attitude

Alexa Owens, athletic coordinator at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Mississippi (BGCCM), loves seeing the kids she instructs go from ‘I can’t’ to ‘I can’ as they learn about the importance of exercise and healthy lifestyles.

“The ones who thought they had physical limitations or weren’t as fit as everyone else are now the first ones up and ready for the activities,” said Owens, who has spent over three years with the organization. “They also keep me motivated to stay fit and eat healthy.”

Nearly 22 percent of kids from 10-17 years of age are classified as obese, according to data from the National Survey of Children’s Health, but BGCCM offers basketball, baseball, volleyball and tennis leagues, as well as programs like Smart Girls and Passport to Manhood.

The BGCCM Triple Play program focuses on teaching youth about keeping their minds, bodies and souls in shape through discussion and social interaction; the daily nutrition component emphasizes healthy eating, portion control and hydration.