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Gimme Five: Rhonika Jones

 

Rhonika is the CEO and founder of the Share My Kickz Foundation, which provides free shoes to children who are primary or secondary victims of domestic violence. The foundation also aims to build healthy relationships through family activities to build kids’ self-esteem, character and confidence, including by helping youngsters be physically active outdoors during the spring and the summer months. It’s the perfect fit for Rhonika: As a former head of a summer camp, she knows just what to do to keep kids moving outside.

What inspired you to start working on childhood obesity?

After running a summer camp last year for 40 children, I noticed first-hand how much the children enjoyed playing outside and hated going back inside the building (unless it was too hot outside). I decided that [I wanted] to create a summer camp free of charge that provided children an outlet to remain physically active while staying fit and healthy all throughout the spring and summer months.

How are you helping to reverse childhood obesity?

Share My Kickz Foundation is providing fun physical activities throughout the spring and summer that encourage children to stay healthy by eating the proper food and staying physically fit. We are providing healthy cooking classes and educating parents on making healthier meal plans for their families.

What’s your biggest accomplishment so far in helping reduce childhood obesity?

My biggest accomplishment so far is introducing children to sports and various physical activities that improve their health and physical activities while encouraging them to eat healthy.

Who is your role model in your work?

My role model has definitely been our First Lady Michelle Obama!!! I absolutely love watching her spread the word about the Let’s Move movement and how she is devoted to motivating our youth into staying fit. 

What healthy snacks did you enjoy growing up? Did you play any sports?

As a child growing up, I enjoyed snacking on Wheat Thins and apple slices. I played soccer from the age of 5  to 21, and was considered a great athlete.

Connect with Rhonika Jones. 

Each week, our own Zach Brooks speaks with a Leader to get a quick look at why he or she loves working to create healthy environments for kids. Want to take part? Visit Zach’s profile and contact him.