Health Commissioner Jim Gross of Public Health – Dayton & Montgomery County announced that multiple public agencies within Montgomery County are beginning a 3-month employee wellness challenge to improve employee and community health. The friendly challenge combines participants into three “Super Teams” representing Montgomery County General Government, Human Services Agencies, and Law Enforcement & Justice.

Challenge participants earn points by incorporating the 5-2-1-Almost None lifestyle into their daily schedule and tracking their healthy behaviors using a simple online program. The challenge goes from June 1, 2012 through August 31, 2012.

Friends, neighbors, and citizens are also invited to participate to improve their health, but their points will not count toward the Super Team scores.  By following the 5-2-1-Almost None easy steps, everyone will lead a healthier lifestyle.

Participants will:

• Eat 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day.

• Spend less than 2 hours of leisure screen time each day (TV, internet, video games).

• Get at least 1 hour of physical activity each day.

• Drink Almost None of those sugary soda or juice-flavored drinks.

Health Commissioner Gross explains, “This is our fourth major GetUp challenge in the community and the 5-2-1-Almost None message is really gaining momentum. This lifestyle is a simple way to make long-term improvements to your health.” Gross further explains, “We believe employee wellness programs have a positive effect on individuals, families, and our communities. We hope that other employers, schools, community groups, and citizens will realize the benefits and decide to get involved.”

Judy Dodge, Montgomery County Commission President explains; "Everyone benefits from eating better and being more physically active. This is a way for County employees to motivate each other to live a healthier life."

For more information about GetUp Montgomery County, visit www.getupmc.org.

Public Health - Dayton & Montgomery County

117 S. Main Street, Dayton, Ohio

Public Information Office 225-4403

Contact Person: Bill Wharton 266-0150 June 1, 2012