Savannah Standard

The City of Savannah has been nationally recognized for its innovative youth health program, receiving second place and a $50,000 award in the medium city category of the 2025 Childhood Obesity Prevention and Environmental Health Sustainability Awards. The accolade was given for the "Mayor on the Move: Healthy Savannah Kids Club" initiative.

This recognition was presented by the American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America (ABFHA) and the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) during their 93rd Winter Meeting in Washington, D.C. The awards honor city-led programs that promote healthier communities and sustainability. Alongside Savannah, eight other cities received grants totaling $745,000 to support local initiatives.

"This national recognition affirms our commitment to building a healthier, stronger Savannah for all," said Mayor Van R. Johnson II. "Our program empowers middle school students and their families to embrace well-rounded, healthier lifestyles. By focusing on social, emotional, physical, intellectual, environmental, spiritual, and financial well-being, we invest in a brighter, more sustainable future for our community."

The Healthy Savannah Kids Club uses a passport-based system to encourage participation in various health-focused activities. Participants earn stamps for completed activities across seven health domains. The program includes incentives such as Mayor-hosted block parties and sports events to foster community connections.

Kevin Keane, president and CEO of American Beverage and president of the ABFHA board of directors stated: "Mayors know their cities best. That's why America's beverage companies are proud to partner with the U.S. Conference of Mayors to help drive community-based solutions that directly address today's most pressing challenges. We congratulate the winning mayors and their cities for their outstanding efforts to improve the communities we call home."

Since 2012, these awards have distributed over $7 million to 84 cities across the United States through public-private partnerships aimed at advancing health and sustainability.