Project #11: Run Across America with Dean Karnazes
The issues of childhood obesity and malnourishment are frequently making headlines – not in third world countries but right here in the United States. Some now consider childhood obesity a national epidemic with nearly 1 in every 3 American children being overweight or even obese – a condition that puts these children at high risk for diabetes, heart disease, and even some types of cancer. Action for Healthy Kids is an organization that partners with schools and communities to teach kids how to eat right and to stay active every day. The organization recruits families, community members, professionals and businesses to support schools in this effort.
Dean Karnazes, known as the Ultramarathon Man, is bringing attention to the mission of Action for Healthy Kids by Running Across America. As he runs across America in his goal to “inspire Americans to get up, get active and get healthy,” he is stopping in just 12 cities to run a 5k with his fans. On Thursday, March 31, 2011, Dean was in Goddard, Kansas. Three (3) KMAZ partners, and one staff member, joined Dean in his cause. Raising $200 for Action for Healthy Kids, these runners enjoyed a jog with one of the most renowned runners in the country.
Run participants from left to right: Michelle Brenwald, Christopher McElgunn, Paige Feikert, and Chasity Helm.