Not Sure What to Say about These Billboards. . . .

Recently, in one of my classes I asked the participants if they had seen a local billboard sponsored by the Storng4Life Campaign.  My boys and I pass by the billboard everyday on the way home from school.  They were the first to notice it and they were APPALLED.  I polled the class participants, and while the message is definately strong and clear, I am not quite sure it can help fix the problem.  

I was surprised to find that one of the fitness blogs I often check out discussed the very same billboard.  Sarahfit.com had the following posted:

Have you heard about the new Strong4Life.com campaign against Childhood Obesity? I haven’t formed my own opinion yet since I just heard about it this morning but my initial reaction is:

-Those poor poor kids in the ads. Can you imagine the bullying they are going to endure at school?

-Is this really how you want to combat childhood obesity?

-Much of childhood obesity starts with the decisions of the parents, school, family income, this doesn’t seem like it’s helping solve any of these except making larger children feel bad about themselves. 

Taken from Sarahfit.com

If you live near me you pass by one of these right near the Steak and Shake – that might be a bit ironic, you think?  You may see them anywhere as this campaign is not just a Georgia campaign.  The billboards definatley make you look are definatley a slap.  I’m guessing that was the intent.  I’m just not sure that slap will help the problem.  Isn’t it education?  I know I don’t have the answers and this is a problem with many issues that needs answers – SOON. 

I also know that Strong4life is a great organization with a wonderful philosophy.  They have other great photos on their website showing kids being active, having fun and participating in healthy habits.  I am in NO way downplaying the organization or their purpose.  Obviously, there need to be more folks out there getting involved and tackling the health risks occurring and that will occur in the future if obesity continues to rise in our nation.  

• What are your first thoughts when you see these photos?
• Does this part of the Strong4life Campaing work for you?