BEE Healthy Kids Fitness Buzz opened at Jefferson Science Magnet Elementary School in Norwalk

Jan 30 2010

Today, U.S. Congressman Jim Himes, Norwalk Mayor Richard Moccia and the GE Hispanic Forum will host the region’s first BEE Healthy Kids Fitness Buzz at Jefferson Science Magnet Elementary School in Norwalk, Connecticut. The program, part of a national health awareness program from General Electric Company (NYSE:GE), is a corporate-wide initiative that provides fun, interactive activities and education related to childhood obesity.

“The BEE Healthy program will help us promote healthy bodies as well as healthy minds. Nutrition and exercise are very important components of the services that we bring to the children of this community.”

“Healthy kids usually grow into healthy adults, and I appreciate the work GE Capital is doing in local communities to promote wellness for our children,’’ said Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4). “Teaching kids to develop healthy habits early on helps them lead happier, healthier lives and reduces costs and strains in our already struggling health care system.”

The “BEE” portion of BEE Healthy* represents the goals to: Balance for stretching and flexibility; Exercise, and Eat healthy. The event is the fourth of 10 national events. An estimated 270 boys and girls will compete on the obstacle course challenge at Jefferson Science Magnet Elementary School’s gymnasium with GE Volunteers mentoring and helping the students with the fitness event. The event will also feature activities in which the children will participate and learn about good nutrition and exercise while they have fun. At the completion of the BEE Healthy* program they will be more informed about the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

Stepping Stones Museum for Children, a non-profit organization committed to broadening and enriching the lives of children, and Norwalk Hospital will partner with GE Capital to run the station activities.

“GE has been a great community partner for Jefferson Science Magnet Elementary,” said Principal John Reynolds. “The BEE Healthy program will help us promote healthy bodies as well as healthy minds. Nutrition and exercise are very important components of the services that we bring to the children of this community.”

GE Capital has a longstanding relationship with Jefferson Science Magnet School, supporting a number of educational and development programs in math and science. More than 500 GE volunteers have worked with the school since 2007 through a combination of online and face-to-face mentoring among other educational initiatives. In addition to today’s program, GE Capital will contribute funds to help the school purchase gym and fitness equipment.

``At GE Capital, we believe in investing in the communities we serve and developing strong local partnerships. We are proud to roll-out the BEE Healthy initiative in our hometown of Norwalk,’’ said Juan Corsillo, senior vice president, commercial excellence, GE Capital Americas and GE Hispanic Forum National Leader. ``In partnership with the GE Hispanic Forum, we are focusing on making a positive difference in the Hispanic community through an emphasis on health and education at Jefferson,’’ said Corsillo.

The BEE Healthy program supports GE’s healthymagination initiative rolled out last year. Healthymagination centers around lowering costs, touching more lives and improving the quality of healthcare.

Source: GE Capital