Written by @Simple_Acts

First Lady Michelle Obama’s initiative to end childhood obesity Let’s move.org is turning 4 this week. Active kids + healthy meals = Happy kids!

It’s not a coincidence that a healthy lifestyle was included in Quincie’s trip to the dentist. The idea was to reinforce this notion in children while they get to read, color and have some fun learning.

I did my part last weekend with my regular 5k running; this time at the Black Light Run in San Jose.  I’ve been keeping up my good cardio workout practice thanks to the help of my friends from Charity Miles. A great app for droids and iphones that allows you to earn money for a great number of organizations dedicated to promote wonderful causes while you stay in shape walking, running or riding your bike. Last Saturday, the  focused was on supporting Partnership for a Healthier America.

It will be hard not to find a good cause to support. Their list of organizations includes:

1. Partnership For a Healthier America
2. (RED) To Benefit the Global Fund
3. Feeding America
4. Wounded Warrior Project
5. Stand Up 2 Cancer
6. ASPCA
7. Habitat for Humanity
8. Alzheimer’s Association
9. The Nature Conservancy
10. Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
11. Every Mother Counts
12. Autism Speaks
13. Soles 4 Souls
14. Special Olympics
15. Do Something.org
16. Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research
17. World Food Programme
18. Girl Up
19. Pencils of Promise
20. Shot @ Life
21. Vision Spring
22. She’s The First
23. Achilles International
24. Nothing But Nets.net
25. Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America
26. Ironman Foundation

I’m pretty sure there is a good cause there for you to support. I found out that my commitment increases when I do something for others. Does the same thing happen to you?

All levels can participate. You can start with a simple walk/hike. The main things you will need are:

• A smart phone to download the app.
• An armband or pocket.
• Water to stay hydrated.
• Music, because it makes everything better.
• And, last but not least, the will to do something for others

We all work better when we feel good. That’s one of the many benefits of physical activity. You can incorporate and promote a healthy lifestyle with monthly challenges; or as a healthy group activity from time to time.

So, download the app and  encourage your staff, coworkers, neighbors, friends, or anyone around you to use Charity Miles #everymilematters. You will feel twice as good for helping others while helping yourself to stay in good shape.

Don’t forget to share your thoughts with us in the comments section. Sharing = love. And, if you’d like to receive periodic updates about this project, subscribe to our mailing list. It’s Free!