October 2008

Dear Friends of New Song, 

As many of you are aware New Song Community corporation is committed to social, educational, spiritual, economic, and physical wholeness of our neighbors in central Harlem. We maintain this commitment in the face of many challenges and have recently focused our attention on the physical health needs of our neighbors. 

Recent studies show that over 60% of Harlem residents are obese or overweight. Studies also show that, in a related problem, adolescents may now represent up to 45% of all diabetes cases. To help tackle this problem we launched the Harlem Center for Healthy Living (HCHL).To run this effort we have hired Vivian Kurutz, a certified personal trainer and member of New Song Church who has long had a passion for the physical well-being of our neighbors. The goal of HCHL is to make wellness practices accessible and affordable for ALL in our community. By providing professional exercise classes, health workshops and personalized support, we aspire to promote healthy neighbors and prevent chronic health problems. 

Since the opening of the program on September 15, 2008, we have already enrolled over 20 people from the immediate neighborhood. That’s over 20 families taking the step to live healthier with many more to come.  

In the first weeks since the launch of HCHL we have been encouraged by the excitement it has generated among our neighbors. While I was sharing the program with a grandmother in the neighborhood who has taken on the responsibility of raising her grandkids, she told me that her doctor had instructed her to lose weight and eat healthier. While that might seem an easy task for some, she was overwhelmed with the idea of how to eat healthier and lose weight. She was ecstatic about the program and the opportunity to have someone to walk with her through the process. 

We are grateful to you for your continuous support. Your partnership is indispensable to our efforts. Especially in financial times like these, we know it is a true sacrifice to give of yourself and your resources. Pleas continue to keep us in your prayers.  

May God richly bless you,

 

Robye Patrick, Executive Director

New Song Community Corporation

 

All gifts are tax-deductible and should be made payable to “New Song Community Church.” Gifts also may be given online through the Community Corporations’ website.