Combating Obesity with Corporate Weight

As a celebrity and national spokesperson for physical fitness, Governor Schwarzenegger had the strength and credibility to inspire youth activity and physical fitness. As Governor he now had the position and influence to stimulate corporate changes to help stem tide of obesity in California communities. Working with the Governor and First Lady Maria Shriver, PCG coordinated and conducted a statewide summit, convening corporate decision makers and securing commitments for changes that would promote healthy living. Lance Armstrong, Dr. Phil McGraw, Dr. Mehmet Oz and restaurateur Alice Waters provided education, information and insights that, combined with corporate pledges, moved well-meaning policies to substantial and immediate actions to improve health and wellness and reduce obesity. PCG engaged high-level participants from major corporations doing business in California, helped secure commitments for meaningful changes, and generated widespread media coverage to publicize the confirmed corporate pledges and call on additional companies to meet the challenge.

THE RESULTS:

• Numerous corporations including El Pollo Loco, 7-Eleven, Brenden Theaters, 24-Hour Fitness, Ruiz Foods and Westfield Corporation undertook major health related initiatives including offering healthier food choices, creating employee health programs and encouraging youth to exercise
• Local, state, national and international media were generated – including a live interview with Maria Shriver on the Today Show