Promoting Health & Wellness in the Community

The National Fatherhood Movement, held annually, celebrates the important role of fathers and men prioritizing their mental and physical health. Led by Project Fatherhood’s Director Keith Parker, alongside this year’s ambassador and SuperBowl 50 Champion Malik Jackson, the event included a morning meditation followed by remarks from fathers in the community and local officials. Families were then invited to walk, run or bike 10,000 steps and participate in free health screenings. Hundreds of dads across dozens of states join Project Fatherhood virtually every year.

The Power of Wellness street festival was a joyous event celebrating the Innovations program which has provided mental health resources in the community for 5 years. Empowering activities included Thick Girl Yoga, Zumba and line dancing with Sisters of Watts. Partner organizations hosted wellness activities and families enjoyed delicious food trucks, obstacle courses and raffles. More than 600 community members were in attendance and left with food bags, diapers and full hearts.

CII’s center-based Head Start program connects children to medical providers and ensures they are kept up-to-date on immunizations, fed nutritious meals and referred to counseling services as needed. Head Start actively engages families in their child’s education by offering family support groups, referrals for additional resources, and opportunities to participate in their child’s everyday learning and wellness.