DeSoto health initiative encourages city to get motivated

by Daphne Brown of DeSoto TODAY

The DeSoto Chamber of Commerce's mission works to spearhead economic growth. But it's being recruited to do just the opposite where the waistline is concerned.

The chamber is organizing its wellness initiative - Live Healthy Texas, designed to improve the overall health of the city.

Representatives with Live Healthy have been meeting with chamber business members to discuss their participation in the 100-day program, which runs from Jan. 14-April 23.

“Co-workers can team up to track weight loss and physical activity. Each week, team members report their progress through the Live Healthy Texas 100 Day Challenge website at www.livehealthytexas.org,” DeSoto Chamber President Cammy Jackson said.

“Friendly competition can be fun and motivating for team members who can check the site's leader board to see where their team ranks in the challenge or in the community.

There also are chances to win prizes for team and individual activities throughout the challenge.

DeSoto employers are encouraged to organize teams of two-10 people and provide participants with the support they need to get involved, stay motivated and make changes to improve their health.

An activation kit includes registration details and materials to begin recruiting team members.

“You can begin moving your company toward a culture of wellness,” she said. “By competing in the Live Healthy Texas - 100 Day Wellness Challenge, you have the opportunity to help your employees make important and lasting changes to their lifestyles, and have a positive impact on your business.”

He said for company leaders, worker health is an important business issue, as satisfied, healthy employees are more likely to help your business grow.

A Live Healthy Texas workshop presented by the chamber is set for 11:30 a.m. Jan. 13 at Methodist Charlton Medical Center.

For additional information on how to get involved in the challenge, RSVP to the chamber for the workshop.

Reach Jackson by calling the chamber at 972-224-3565. The chamber is located at 2010 N. Hampton Road, Suite 200 in DeSoto.