Building Healthy Communities

Reducing Health Disparities in Elementary Schools

Building Healthy Communities is a school-based program focused on addressing the social determinants of health that have contributed to wide disparities in many communities across Michigan.

Health Impact

Since 2009 the statewide program has reached:

Schools

Teachers

Students & Families

Hear what children, teachers, school leaders and parents have to say about Building Healthy Communities!

“I have been completely blown away at how enthusiastic my kids have been about eating healthier and getting exercise.”

—Parent

“The Building Healthy Communities Program inspired staff and students to become healthier! We began drinking more water and having fruit and veggie snacks rather than sugary drinks and unhealthy snacks. Students were also given opportunity to try fruit and veggies they had not tried before and they realized they liked them and eat them now!”

—Principal

“Building Healthy Communities has become a huge part of our daily lives in the classroom. Students love the nutrition lessons as they get kids talking and thinking about healthy good choices.”

—Classroom Teacher

“Before our physical education equipment was dated and limited. Now there is plenty of equipment to keep all students in classes engaged increasing the time students are active and their outlook on physical education.”

—PE Teacher

“I think that Building Healthy Communities has helped our school because it helps the school be active. I think the Healthy Kids Club is good because you eat healthy snacks and exercise. It’s been a big help for the school.”

—Fifth Grade Student

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Building Healthy Communities

Building Healthy Communities

Building Healthy Communities: Reducing Health Disparities in Elementary Schools

Hello, April! 🌞🌸Spring is officially here, and that means warmer weather, longer days, and endless opportunities to get outside and stay active! ☀️🌿 Whether it’s riding your bike, playing a game of soccer, or just taking a walk and enjoying the fresh air, now is the perfect time to shake off the winter blues and move your body!Being active outside isn’t just fun—it helps boost your energy, improve your mood, and keep you feeling your best! So let’s step into spring with movement, laughter, and sunshine! ☀️💛🌷 #HelloApril #SpringIntoAction #GetOutside #MoveMore #BuildingHealthyCommunities ... See MoreSee Less
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Mindful Monday: The Power of Daily Affirmations 🌿Practicing daily affirmations can positively impact both you and your children by boosting self-confidence, reducing stress, and fostering a growth mindset. For adults, affirmations help reframe negative thoughts and encourage self-worth, while for kids, they build resilience, emotional regulation, and a strong sense of self. Making this simple practice part of your daily routine can lead to a more positive and empowered mindset for the whole family! #MindfulMonday #dailyaffirmations #positivemindset #BuildingHealthyCommunities ... See MoreSee Less
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🎧💃 Dancing Imposter Challenge! 🕺🎶Get ready for a dance-off like no other! Everyone wears headphones and dances to the same beat… except one player who’s secretly listening to a completely different song! 😱The imposter’s goal? To blend in with the group without getting caught while dancing to a totally different rhythm. After a few minutes, everyone takes a guess – who’s the imposter? 🤔Not only is this game a blast, but it's also a great physical activity! It gets everyone moving, improves coordination, boosts heart health, and is a fun way to stay active with the whole family or your friends! 💪🕺Tag your crew and challenge them to a round of Dancing Imposter! 💥#DancingImposter #DanceChallenge #PhysicalActivity #GameNight #BuildingHealthyCommunities ... See MoreSee Less
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Fuel Your Day, Build a Healthy Community! 🌟Healthy snacking is key to maintaining energy, staying focused, and supporting overall well-being. By choosing nutrient-rich options, you’re not just fueling your body but also helping to build a healthier community one snack at a time! 💪Our website offers a variety of informational sheets and tips on topics ranging from healthy eating to overall wellness. Explore resources that can guide you toward making better choices for yourself and your community! 💻💚👉 Check it out: bhcwsu.org/ #HealthySnacking #NutrientRich #HealthyLiving #SnackSmart #CommunityWellness #StayHealthy #BuildingHealthyCommunities ... See MoreSee Less
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Happy National Spinach Day! 🌿Celebrate with this Kid-Friendly Spinach Banana Smoothie—packed with nutrients but tastes like a treat! 💚✨Recipe:✅ 1 ripe banana 🍌✅ 1 cup fresh spinach 🌱✅ ½ cup Greek yogurt 🥄✅ ½ cup milk (or dairy-free alternative) 🥛✅ 1 tbsp honey 🍯 (optional)✅ Ice cubes 🧊🌀 Blend until smooth & enjoy! It’s a sneaky way to get those greens in! #HealthyKids #NationalSpinachDay #GreenGoodness #BuildingHealthyCommunities ... See MoreSee Less
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