Take Action! California 5 a Day—Be Active! Worksite Program: Kickoff Event

Purpose

The kickoff event motivates people to register and participate in Take Action! and gives them detailed information about the program. It can take a variety of forms like a picnic, brown-bag lunch, or simple presentation. It should be a fun and interactive event that highlights management support of Take Action!

Equipment

Microphones, computer, LCD projector, overhead projector, CD/tape player, or other audiovisual equipment, as needed. The equipment needed will depend on the format of the event.

Materials

Power Point slides or overheads, if needed.

Handouts for Participants:

• Set Your Goal Worksheet (see "Participant Forms" section)
• Registration Form (see "Evaluating the Success of Take Action!" section)
• Take Action! Log (see "Participant Forms" section)
• Recommended Adult Intake of Fruits and Vegetables Table (if your worksite's Take Action! program is focusing on fruit and vegetable consumption) (see "Participant Materials" section)
• Physical Activity and Exercise Safety (if your worksite's Take Action! program is focusing on physical activity) (see "Participant Materials" section)

Preparation

1. Select a date for your kickoff event. When selecting a time and date, remember:
   • It should be prior to the beginning of Take Action!, but not so far in advance that momentum is lost from the excitement built up by the event. If possible, piggyback on the publicity for and attendance at a major organization event, such as an all-employee meeting or picnic or National Employee Health and Fitness Day.
   • Confirm CEO/Management attendance. Include remarks by the CEO/Management in the agenda.
   • Select a location that will be large enough to accommodate attendees. If an outdoor venue is selected, have alternate plans in case of inclement weather.
   • Choose a time that will be convenient for a majority of employees.
2. Team Captains should be present at the event, though they do not necessarily make presentations. They should be recognized by the Program Coordinator.
3. Prepare an agenda for the presentation portion. (See sample kickoff event agenda.)
4. Consider serving refreshments at the kickoff. Providing healthy food and beverage choices will make the event more festive and meaningful.
5. Consider incorporating a 5-10 minute physical activity break to jump start attendees.
6. Prepare PowerPoint slides or overheads, if necessary.
7. Prepare handouts for participants.
8. Promote the event.

Tips

• Encourage audience participation. Ask audience members to call out the benefits of fruits and vegetables or physical activity or different types of fruits/vegetables or physical activities. Give out prizes for audience participation.
• Give each attendee an incentive item (e.g., water bottle, T-shirt) for attending the event. Have the CEO, Coordinator, and Team Captains wear the incentive t-shirt for the kickoff.
• Create a festive atmosphere with balloons, banners, music, etc.

Sample Kickoff Agenda

One inspirational way to start your Take Action! kickoff is to have a staff member or community member talk about their experiences with healthy eating or physical activity. The speaker should be someone the participants relate to. They can talk briefly about their experiences in getting started with a healthy lifestyle, overcoming setbacks, and the benefits they experienced. You can also ask participants from previous Take Action! programs to talk about their experiences during Take Action!. Many community-based organizations have speakers bureaus that volunteer their time to talk with community groups. Consider contacting one (American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society) to assist you.