On April 5, 2002 the World Health Organization presented the Ho-Chunk Nation Youth Fitness Program one of seven international awards (four given in the United States) honoring a model project or program. The award, presented in Washington, D.C., paid tribute to the program designed to prevent or reduce the risk factors associated with Type 2 diabetes, a major health risk among Native people. Stating that "the nomination was a major surprise to us all", Director of Nutrition, Lisa D’Angelo acknowledged "it was an opportunity to show what we’re doing." What the program is doing is teaching children and their families the value of good diet and exercise, key elements in preventing obesity, known to be a risk factor that contributes to Type 2 diabetes.

Funded through a Rural Outreach Grant, the program, started in October 2000 by Exercise Specialist Charmaine Garry and Pediatric Nutritionist Amy Zibble, focuses on youth six to 18 years old who need to lose weight and take control of their lives. Seventy children in the Wisconsin Dells/Baraboo School Districts have gone through the program and Dr. Tom Walker, who accepted the award, is encouraged. Challenged to make lifestyle changes in nutrition and exercise habits, these changes have resulted in statistically significant differences in pre-and post-program insulin levels in the participants, an indication the program is producing positive results, Walker reported.

Meeting twice a week, the program offers nutritional counseling, recommendations for healthier grocery shopping, and low fat cooking classes to the children and their families. Combining exercise and fun, the program constantly encourages the need to make improved lifestyle choices. Though some parents may be concerned about their child’s weight, the program does have some eligibility requirements. Applicants must have a Body Mass Index of 27 or more, (20-25 is normal) a number derived by the height/weight relationship of the individual. Those wanting to participate need to be referred by school nurses, doctors, teachers, youth workers, parents, relatives or self.

At a Recognition Ceremony held April 22^nd at the Wellness Center, Garry and Zibble emphasized they did not do it alone. They wished to share recognition with fellow staff members, representatives from the local schools, local businesspeople, the University of Wisconsin Pediatric Fitness Clinic (especially Dr. Aaron Carrel) and most of all with the children and families enrolled in the program. The success of the program, which this year worked with 42 students, has led the Health Department to start a similar program in Black River Falls. D’Angelo hopes that in the future the program will be made available to all Ho-Chunk communities. The award reads as follows:

World Health Day 2002 Award
Presented to
Ho Chunk Nation of Health
Ho Chunk Youth Fitness Program
in recognition of
its leadership in creating a successful innovative
physical activity promotional program
for at-risk populations