Aetna (NYSE: AET) and Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) have kicked off a 12-month statewide multi-media campaign to raise awareness of the increased risks of childhood obesity.
Funded by a $50,000 grant from the Aetna Foundation, the campaign will include community health events in Atlanta, Macon, Savannah and Columbus; a series of television and radio spots; and a 60-minute television special that will air tonight.
During tonight’s TV special, an expert panel will discuss causes and solutions to the epidemic of childhood obesity that is plaguing Georgia. A GPB phone bank and on-line chat will connect viewers with a group of experts led by the Georgia Department of Community Health.
“With the help of great organizations such as GPB and Aetna, we will continue to provide educational resources that improve the wellness of Georgia’s children,” said Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue.
Georgia Public Broadcasting will host a community health event Sept. 26 in Atlanta. Other events are scheduled Oct. 2 in Augusta, Nov. 7 in Macon and Nov. 14 in Savannah. An additional community health event will be scheduled in Columbus on a date to be determined.
Dr. Neal Shulman, the real-life “Doc Hollywood” whose story inspired the 1991 Michael J. Fox movie of the same name, will be featured at all of the events, educating children and their parents about the importance of healthy lifestyle choices in a fun and entertaining way. He also produced and is featured in the public service announcements being used as part of the campaign. Dr. Shulman lives in the Atlanta area and teaches at Emory University.
"GPB's collaboration with Aetna is one example of how we're fulfilling our mission of providing programs and services that are enriching to children and families," said GPB President and Executive Director Teya Ryan. "We're proud to use all of our media platforms to bring attention to this important issue."