Nonprofit supporting African American women to overcome obesity

African American women have the highest rates of obesity compared to other groups in America, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Black Girls RUN!, a nonprofit dedicated to helping women live healthier lifestyles, aims to change those statistics.

“4 out of 5 women are considered obese or overweight,” said Black Girls RUN! CEO Jay Ell Alexander. “African American women have been at the top of the charts for several different [reasons].”

Black Girls RUN! started as a blog in 2009 and ignited a nationwide movement. By 2018, the group had become a nonprofit. Today, they are encouraging and supporting women to take steps toward healthier lives.

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Sibyl Porter joined the nonprofit five years ago and says she’s been active since. “It’s everything to be connected to a group of women that becomes a sisterhood, motivates and inspires. These ladies are so amazing.”

The coronavirus outbreak paused the organizations group runs. Now, they are pushing solo runs and virtual exercises to keep everyone active and engaged.

The nonprofit also partnered with the Civil Rights Race series for 1 Million Miles for Justice, a virtual run, walk and bike ride to raise money and awareness of racial injustices.

“Ahmaud Arbery was killed while he was out running,” said Alexander. “For us to go outside and run is definitely a privilege.”

BGR! will continue virtual programming throughout June.

You can connect with the nonprofit here.

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