It is an oft-heard adage that we should practice what we preach. If that is the case, organizing a fundraiser needs to be carefully planned. It is the responsibility of the parents and the teachers to give the kids and young adults the right way to organize a fundraiser. The chief aim is raising funds, but if they are raised in an unhealthy manner, it's a win/lose event. If the fundraiser is done in a healthy manner, it can be a win/win event.
The problem of obesity has emerged as one of the major health risks among the kids and young adults. Parents are always worried about what their children are eating and their calorie count. The term junk food is scary for all parents, as these obviously mean adverse affects on health. Junk food is something to be avoided, especially because of the rise in type 2 diabetes cases among children.
The concern among parents about the health of their kids has also affected the rules put down by the state legislature. Section 204 of the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act, 2004, has put down norms for keeping in mind the health factor. Along with the federal laws, each state has put down certain rules and regulations of its own as well.
The basic norms for organizing a healthy fundraiser are similar, the only difference are in the details. For example, California SB-12 has certain restrictions to whatever is served at a school fundraiser. All schools in California must abide by these norms if it is to organize a fundraiser. Chocolates and candies, chips and treats that do not fall under the health norms are strictly prohibited in a California fundraiser.
It is the responsibility of the school and the local authorities to supervise the fundraising that is being organized. The snacks that are served at the California school fundraisers need to be healthy. The norms state that they should have less than 10% saturated fats, 35% sugar, and 35% fats. Anything that is not under these specifications is not to be included in a California fundraiser.
Opting for healthier snacking alternatives does not mean compromising on taste. The rice krispie treats or certain chips or snack mixes can be popularized among kids only for their taste. Sugary and salty junk food can easily be replaced with healthy snacks available.
Profits need to be considered when a fundraiser is planned. Many have the misconception that opting for healthier snacks means a waste of money as they cost a lot. However this is not true. Healthy snacks are a cost-effective alternative to the sugary or fatty snacks. Moreover, you cannot compromise about your child's health for monetary reasons.
Author Resource:-
Alec Moreland promotes wellness, nutrition and healthy snacks in fundraising to reduce obesity and Type 2 Diabetes in schools. "America's #1 Healthy Snack Fundraiser" is The Chocolate Alternative.
Healthy_Fundraising_Solutions Contact Alec at alec@healthyfundraisingsolutions.com