 | | Thrive Together: OAC's Quarterly Youth & Families Newsletter | | A Message from Our Board Chair | | John,
Welcome to Thrive Together, OAC’s new initiative for young people and families. We’re so glad you’re here. We created this space because we know that conversations about weight and health can be challenging. There are so many opinions out there, but it’s not always easy to find support that feels safe, reliable and free from judgment. My hope—on behalf of the entire OAC Community—is that Thrive Together becomes a place where you can find trusted, fact-based information and connect with others who truly understand. A place where young people and families can have open, honest conversations about weight, health, and even bias and stigma, without fear or shame. Most of all, we hope you find a community that encourages you to live your best life every day—because you deserve that, just as you are. Welcome. We’re in this together!
| | | | | | | | | |  | Explore Kid’s Corner Looking for fun, easy-to-understand resources to help kids learn about health and wellness? Kid’s Corner is designed just for young learners and their families! With engaging articles, helpful tips and family-friendly content, we make health education exciting and accessible. Find it in Weight Matters Magazine and our Resource Library. | | |  | Help Stop Weight-Based Bullying! No child should be bullied because of their weight, yet for many, this is a painful reality. More than 30% of girls and 24% of boys with excess weight report being teased, excluded or bullied at school, affecting their physical and mental health. Ask your Governor to add weight-based bullying protections to school policies. Our advocacy tool makes it easy—just fill in your info and personalize your message. Together, we can create a safer, more inclusive future. Take action today! | | | | | | | | | | Meet Maggie: A Teen’s Journey to Empowerment | | | | Maggie Ervie, a vibrant teen from Kansas City, spent years searching for answers about her rapid weight gain. At just thirteen, she underwent gastric sleeve surgery—marking a turning point in her lifelong journey with obesity. But it wasn’t just treatment that changed everything—it was finding a community that understood her. Through the Obesity Action Coalition’s Thrive Together Youth and Families Program, Maggie discovered support, resources and a sense of belonging. Attending the OAC National Convention became a pivotal moment, helping her navigate weight management, body image and mental health with renewed confidence. Read her inspiring story! | | | | Expert Tips for Raising Healthy Kids | | | | | | Dear Families, As a pediatrician, I want to reassure you that supporting a child’s health is a journey best taken together. Obesity can impact a child’s well-being in many ways over time, increasing the risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and joint problems, as well as emotional challenges like low self-esteem and social stigma. That’s why a whole-family approach is so important. Children thrive when healthy habits are integrated into daily life rather than when the focus is placed solely on them. Parents and caregivers play a key role in creating a supportive environment that encourages balanced nutrition, enjoyable movement and positive, stigma-free conversations about health. Small, consistent changes can make a lasting impact, and no family is alone in this journey. Every step taken together helps build a strong foundation for lifelong well-being. It’s also important to keep open communication with your child’s pediatrician. They can provide guidance tailored to your child’s needs, monitor their growth and health over time, and offer evidence-based recommendations to ensure your child receives the compassionate care they deserve. I am pleased to be part of OAC’s Thrive Together Youth & Families Program and encourage you to stay connected by signing up for this newsletter if you haven't already. It’s a great way to stay informed about the latest activities, resources and opportunities to support your family’s health and wellness. Together we can create a healthier future for our children! Stephen Cook, MD, MPH | | | | | | Three Question Survey
Help us shape the future of Thrive Together, OAC’s Youth and Families Program! Take our quick 3-question survey—it only takes a minute, and your input will help us create meaningful resources and support. | | | | | | | | A Reminder You Deserve! You are strong, smart and enough—always. Thrive Together helps kids and families build confidence, learn about health in fun ways and support each other every step of the way. A kind word or daily affirmation can make a big difference. Share this reminder with someone who needs it today! | | | | | | The first-ever Thrive Together Newsletter is here! Don’t miss out on fun, educational resources for youth and families—sign up now to get future quarterly issues delivered straight to your inbox! | | | |  | Welcome to the first Thrive Together Newsletter! | | We’re excited to bring fun, accessible health education to youth and their families. For 20 years, OAC has been a powerful voice in advocacy, education, and support for individuals affected by obesity—fighting weight bias, improving access to care, and working toward a world where everyone gets the respect and treatment they deserve. If we want to continue growing programs like Thrive Together, we need your support! Not an OAC Community Member? Join Today!
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Donate to Support Thrive Together
Help us continue offering fun, accessible health education for youth and their families. Make a donation today to help fuel OAC's new Thrive Together program and create lasting change! | | | | Help us spread the word so more families can access fun, engaging and educational resources. Share with your friends today! | | | Obesity Action Coalition
4511 North Himes Ave., Suite 250 | Tampa, Florida 33614
(800) 717-3117 | [email protected] | | | | | | | | | |
