NATIONAL INITIATIVES
Continentals feel the national initiatives are important to the well-being of our children and each chapter is encouraged to implement service programs that provide information and benefit to the community. Recognizing the importance of the national initiatives, more than 90% of the Continental Chapters provide service programs supporting one or more of the national initiatives. More details about these programs follow:
LITERACY DEVELOPMENT
Continental Societies, Inc.® embraces the view that literacy extends beyond reading and writing to include the skills needed for effective problem-solving and communication in everyday life. Through initiatives such as book drives, read-ins, spelling bees, and poetry contests, chapters work to strengthen the literacy and learning abilities of children and youth.
ASTHMA AWARENESS
Continental Societies, Inc.® acknowledges the Environmental Protection Agency's 2010 report highlighting a sharp rise in asthma rates, a serious respiratory disease affecting over 20 million Americans, especially children ages 5 to 14. In response, the organization develops community education programs and partners with local initiatives like Zap Asthma to raise awareness and reduce asthma occurrence among children and youth through school assemblies, health fairs, and interactive activities focused on asthma triggers
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OBESITY PREVENTION
Continental Societies, Inc.® recognizes childhood obesity as a critical issue, labeling it a silent killer with immediate and long-term health risks such as cardiovascular disease, bone and joint problems, sleep apnea, and psychological issues. Aligned with First Lady Michelle Obama’s 2010 "Let's Move!" campaign—with the ambitious goal of reducing childhood obesity from 20% to 5% by 2030—the organization supports programs including community gardens, nutrition education, and physical fitness initiatives in schools and community centers. Additionally, Continental Societies, Inc.® has expanded its service programs to address other priorities such as Career Exploration and Support, Oral Health, and the African American Read-In
CAREER EXPLORATION AND SUPPORT
In response to the staggering unemployment rates that exist in inner cities throughout the nation, the Continentals provide support for students in exploring and preparing for careers. Career exploration activities are provided for elementary and lower middle school students.
On the upper level for middle school and high school students, career preparation and training activities are provided. These activities include developing resumes; preparing for and using techniques for interviewing; and researching and defining job opportunities and trends, internships and career planning. Students also enjoy site visits to various industries and job shadowing experiences.
ORAL HEALTH
Understanding that the lack of adequate oral health can negatively impact a child’s life, Continental Societies, Inc.® partnered with Colgate’s Bright Smiles Bright Futures dental van program to increase oral health awareness. Colgate is a leader in oral care and children’s oral care improvement around the world.
Continental Societies, Inc.®, works hand-in-hand with Colgate as they have reached over 120 million children in the United States with positive dental messages.