Mandell JCC Selected as One of Six National Pilot Sites for Discover Coordinated Approach To Child Health (CATCH) with Michelle Obama’s ‘Let’s Move’ Program

The Mandell JCC has been selected by the JCC Association (JCCA), as one of six national pilot sites for a new health and wellness program called Coordinated Approach to Child Health (CATCH). The program seeks to bring healthy habits to community children and families, and has been connected with Michelle Obama’s ‘Let’s Move’ initiative through the US Department of Agriculture’s Center for Faith Based and Neighborhood Partnerships.

Starting the 2012 summer season, the Mandell JCC will begin incorporating CATCH program components into daily activities at its summer day camp, three Early Childhood Centers, Kids Korner after school program, and Youth Sports programs. The program employs a holistic approach to child health by involving teachers, children and families, and providing group activities and games modified to encourage all participants to be in motion as much as possible, and learn healthy eating habits.

“We are thrilled to be piloting this national program, that was developed by the University of Texas, to help battle childhood obesity and educate families on health and wellness. Being chosen as a pilot site allows us to access innovative and exciting programs that will benefit our members and program participants” said Annie Keith, Mandell JCC Associate Executive Director and CATCH Pilot Project Manager. A community kick-off event for the program will be held on Sunday, September 30, 2012.

The Mandell JCC was selected for the program on the basis of its outstanding performance in early childhood education, sports, fitness and wellness, and outreach to the community as recognized by the JCC Association. For more information on programs and services at the Mandell JCC, contact the Member Services Center at the Mandell JCC, Zachs Campus, 335 Bloomfield Avenue, West Hartford, CT, 860-236-4571 or visit www.mandelljcc.org. For updates, follow the Mandell JCC on Facebook and Twitter.

The Mandell Jewish Community Center is open to everyone and supported by funds raised by the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford, a recipient of funding from the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Hartford, a member of the JCC Association of North America.