Promotoras Education and Outreach
This program exists for this main purpose: to actively promote healthier behaviors and choices within our community. The Promotoras Education and Outreach Team does this in more than just a few ways. With exercise classes, walking clubs, nutrition and cooking classes and workshops, the Riverside Community Health Foundation has had a huge impact.
Exercise classes such as Arthritis Foundation Tai Chi and Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program instruct participants on exercising within the comfort of their homes, maintaining active lifestyles, and sustaining flexibility in movement.
Zumba® fitness classes have energized participants to incorporate exercise into their regular routine through this fun cardio program that uses Latin and International rhythms to provide body toning and sculpting and at the same time burn calories. Additionally, walking clubs are being established throughout the City of Riverside. The ensuing health impact is multi-layered. Nutrition and cooking classes are also a big focus. The
Healthy Recipes Class, offer attendees the opportunity to share home prepared recipes as well as learn how to use healthier substitutes for their home cooked meals. Such are but a few of the ongoing workshops and classes in the community. Other classes range from the dangers of substance use to self-defense workshops. Information gathered in these grassroots settings reaches far beyond the actual participants.
What People Are Saying
Indeed, the Promotoras team remains a vibrant example of how to fulfill RCHF's mandate by promoting health through a holistic, culturally competent and effective model.
One participant said, "These exercises have helped me manage my arthritis, and now my spirit and self-esteem have improved."
"I love the workout and the fun personality of the class. I’ve lost 12 pounds and I’m going to lose more! Zumba!"
Fabiola M.'s experience is a classic story of rippling health effect: "Walking more frequently has given me the energy and enthusiasm to be more active during the day, and the conversations I've had with the Promotoras around nutrition issues have helped me take better care of my family."
As one Arlanza resident puts it, "I appreciate with all my heart that you have these free programs for our community."