Under a sun drenched sky, exhibitors, speakers and other health and wellness experts used interactive seminars, screenings and other educational tools to promote a culture of healthy living and wellness at the McKinney Foundation’s 6th annual “Celebrating a Healthier Detroit” Expo Aug. 5 at William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor in Detroit.
More than 50 health and wellness experts emphasized prevention techniques for an array of diet and lifestyle conditions including: childhood obesity, hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, asthma and depression. Despite making inroads on the problem of childhood obesity, Michigan ranked among the top 15 states in the nation for adult obesity according to a 2013 Robert Wood Johnson Foundation report.
With the gleaming Detroit River serving as a backdrop, the day commenced with a Family Fun Run. Other activities included games for kids, aerobic exercise and healthy cooking demonstrations, health seminars from doctors with Henry Ford Health System and an inspiring message from Dr. Eddie M. Connor, Jr. on the importance of practicing emotional health. In addition, U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, State Rep. LaTanya Garrett and Detroit City Councilman Gabe Leland encouraged the crowd of more than 500 people to make health and wellness habits part of their daily lives.
“The problem of obesity in Michigan and nationally is particularly acute for communities of color,” said Tiah E. McKinney, Executive Director, McKinney Foundation. “We believe our 6th annual “Celebrating a Healthier Detroit” Expo continued to build on our mission of promoting health equity in metro Detroit,” she added. “We are already preparing for next year’s event, slated for August 10, 2016, at Milliken State Park,” McKinney concluded.
The growing popularity and mission of The McKinney Foundation (TMF) has garnered the support of major corporations including The Detroit Pistons, The Detroit Red Wings, Coca Cola Company, Detroit Medical Center-Children’s Hospital (KIPP), Molina Healthcare, Blue Cross Complete, Henry Ford Health Systems, Wayne County Community College District, BUF of Michigan, AFPD, Walgreens, U.S. Ice Company, and many others.
More information on the history and mission of the McKinney Foundation can be found on the organization’s website, www.mckinneyfoundation.org
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