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.”

โ€”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!”

โ€”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.”

โ€”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.”

โ€”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.”

โ€”Fifth Grade Student

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Building Healthy Communities

Building Healthy Communities

Building Healthy Communities: Reducing Health Disparities in Elementary Schools

May is bursting with fresh fruits & veggies โ€” and fun ways to enjoy them!Getting kids excited about healthy eating starts with seasonal produce that's colorful, tasty, and fun to make together. Mayโ€™s harvest brings sweet treats and snackable veggies perfect for little hands (and big appetites!). ๐ŸŒฑ๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐ŸณKid-friendly May produce:๐Ÿ“ Strawberries โ€“ try them in yogurt parfaits or dipped in dark chocolate!๐Ÿซ› Snap peas โ€“ crunchy and fun to munch, plain or with hummus๐Ÿฅฆ Asparagus โ€“ roast with a little olive oil and sprinkle with cheese๐Ÿฅฌ Spinach โ€“ blend into smoothies for a sneaky vitamin boost๐Ÿ’ Cherries โ€“ a sweet snack or baked into mini hand piesHealthy habits start in the kitchen and itโ€™s even better when it's fun and delicious! #MayProduce #HealthyEating #FamilyRecipes #BuildingHealthyCommunities ... See MoreSee Less
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Make the most of May with outdoor fun for the whole family!Spring is in full bloom, and it's the perfect time to step outside, get moving, and create memories together. Whether it's a quick backyard game or a weekend adventure, outdoor play boosts mood, builds connection, and supports healthy development. ๐Ÿ’šHere are some fun ideas to try:๐ŸŒณ Nature scavenger hunts๐Ÿšฒ Family bike rides๐Ÿงบ Picnic in the park๐ŸŽจ Sidewalk chalk art๐Ÿฅพ Trail walks or mini hikes๐ŸŒฑ Gardening #outdoorplayu#HealthyFamiliesh#getoutsideG#BuildingHealthyCommunitiesommunities ... See MoreSee Less
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Motherโ€™s Day is this weekend โ€” and itโ€™s a beautiful reminder to pause and honor the women who have shaped us with love, strength, and endless sacrifice. ๐ŸŒธ๐Ÿ’–Whether itโ€™s your mom, stepmom, grandma, aunt, or a mother figure whoโ€™s been there through it all โ€” take a moment to thank them. The quiet support, the sleepless nights, the unconditional loveโ€ฆ they gave so much of themselves so we could grow, dream, and thrive.Let this weekend be a celebration of all theyโ€™ve done and all they continue to be. A simple โ€œthank you,โ€ a hug, a call, or even just time together can mean more than words can say. ๐ŸŒท๐Ÿ’•#MothersDay #BuildingHealthyCommunities #GratefulHeart #CelebrateMomsEverywhere ... See MoreSee Less
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Getting good sleep isnโ€™t just about how long youโ€™re in bed โ€” itโ€™s about how you wind down, too. Practicing strong sleep hygiene can boost your mood, improve focus, and strengthen your immune system. ๐Ÿง ๐Ÿ’ชโ Some easy sleep hygiene tips to try:- Stick to a consistent sleep schedule (yes, even on weekends!)- Avoid screens 30โ€“60 mins before bed- Cut back on caffeine in the afternoon- Wind down with relaxing routines โ€” like reading, gentle stretching, or deep breathing- Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quietโ Better sleep = a better you. Start small, rest well. ๐Ÿ˜ดโœจ#SleepHygiene #HealthyHabits #MentalHealthMatters #WellnessTips #BuildingHealthyCommunities ... See MoreSee Less
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Happy National Teachers Week!๐ŸŽ๐Ÿ“šThis week, we celebrate the heart, dedication, and impact of educators everywhere. From shaping young minds to inspiring lifelong learning, teachers do it all โ€” often with patience, creativity, and love. ๐Ÿ’›Thank you for showing up, lifting up, and never giving up. The difference you make lasts a lifetime. โœ๏ธโœจ#ThankATeacher #BuildingHealthyCommunities #GratefulForTeachers #ClassroomHeroes ... See MoreSee Less
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