MEND stands for Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do It! The MEND 7–13 Program is one of the world’s largest evidence-based healthy lifestyle program that empowers 7–13-year-olds, with the support of their families, to reach and maintain a healthy weight. It does this by helping families change unhealthy attitudes about food and activity (Mind), keep physically active on a regular basis (Exercise), learn how to choose foods that are healthy, tasty and nutritious (Nutrition), and take action to maintain a healthy lifestyle—for life (Do It!).

Research has shown that programs that combine behavior change, physical activity and nutrition with ongoing support for families are more likely to produce long-lasting health benefits. The MEND 7–13 Program has been designed by childhood obesity experts to contain all of these vital elements. MEND 7–13 meets the recommendations of the US Preventive Services Task Force for improving physical and mental health in overweight and obese children.

Over 30,000 people in 5 countries have already benefitted from attending a MEND Program. MEND 7–13 is currently being run in diverse communities across the US, in partnership with YMCAs and other community-based organizations.

The MEND Foundation is now actively building a broad coalition of strategic partners to help fight childhood obesity in the US. This coalition will subsidize MEND 7–13 Programs for low-income families, particularly in underserved communities.