Keeping Youth Healthy

Virginia Youth Obesity Prevention (VYOP) was established by the Virginia General Assembly in 2009 to reduce and prevent childhood obesity statewide.

With at least 30 percent of children and teens in Virginia classified as overweight or obese, the Assembly recognized this as a growing problem within the Commonwealth.

VYOP is a division of the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth, which also oversees the statewide efforts to reduce and prevent youth tobacco use through its Virginia Tobacco Settlement Foundation division.

Two key components of YVOP will be promoting good nutrition and physical activity among the youth of Virginia. The Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth's Board of Trustees is currently working on developing a strategic plan to address these concerns and the problem of childhood obesity across the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Eat Right, Get Fit

This site is designed to help parents get information about how to help their children eat well and get fit.

Almost three-quarters of adult Virginians eat fewer than five fruits and vegetables per day, and about 35 percent of children in Virginia engage in physical activity less than 3 days a week. (Experts recommend that kids should exercise a minimum of 60 minutes a day.)

Within this Web site, you'll find tips for parents, families, communities and schools to help children and teens eat right, get fit and learn to lead healthy lifestyles.