Clare County Community Foundation Grant Supports Youth Risk Reduction Education Program
The MyMichigan Health Foundation received a $18,424 grant from the Clare County Community Foundation. Awarded through the John A. and Audrey Brown Memorial Endowment Fund, funds will benefit MyMichigan’s Risk Reduction Education for Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Obesity Prevention in Youth program.
The Risk Reduction program, conducted in partnership with sixth-grade science teachers across Clare County, is led by educators from the Diabetes Center at MyMichigan Health. The six-session series focuses on essential lifestyle topics such as nutrition, physical activity, and healthy behavior choices.
“Using a USDA-developed curriculum, we deliver hands-on education to help youth understand how their daily choices impact their long-term health,” said Erin White, manager of the Diabetes Center for MyMichigan Health. “We guide students to reflect on their habits and encourage simple changes—like drinking more water, eating more fruits and vegetables, and moving more. These small steps can have a big impact over time.”
One popular lesson focuses on reading food labels. Students compare the nutritional content of a medium apple versus a packaged brownie, exploring the effects of sugar, fat, fiber and vitamins on the body. Students are encouraged to lead class discussions about how each nutrient impacts the person consuming the item. “Each session ends with tasting a healthy snack and earning rewards, which makes learning fun and memorable,” added White.
Approximately 300 students are reached annually through the Risk Reduction program, with the potential to influence entire households as students bring their new knowledge home. By equipping youth with tools for healthier living, the program aims to reduce future rates of chronic illness in the community.
Those interested in more information about MyMichigan’s Diabetes programs may visit www.mymichigan.org/diabetes
About the Clare County Community Foundation
The Clare County Community Foundation exists to cultivate the power of giving within our community, support long-term transformation and help ensure all residents thrive.
