Steve Young and Sutter Health Champion Youth Wellness in New Partnership

Sutter Health has announced a strategic partnership with Pro Football Hall of Famer Steve Young and the Forever Young Foundation. This collaboration aims to enhance youth health and wellness across Northern California. The initiative focuses on offering community-based programs that promote physical activity, confidence, and connections among young people.

Kickoff Event: Girls Youth Flag Football Clinic

The partnership will officially launch with a Girls Youth Flag Football Clinic at Palo Alto High School, located at 50 Embarcadero Road. This event is scheduled for Saturday, January 31, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The clinic will be open to local girls aged 7-14, providing them with opportunities for skill-building, movement, and mentorship. However, it is important to note that the event is by invitation only and not open to the public.

Objectives of the Partnership

• Promote healthy development for young athletes.
• Create community-based experiences beyond traditional healthcare settings.
• Encourage active lifestyles, confidence, and the development of healthy habits.

Warner Thomas, president and CEO of Sutter Health, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. He stated, “Our collaboration reflects what’s possible when healthcare and community come together.” He emphasized the importance of empowering youth to stay active and build resilience through supportive initiatives.

Importance of Youth Wellness

Steve Young highlighted the significance of physical education, stating it positively impacts not only current health but also fosters habits that last into adulthood. He and his wife, Barb, have maintained a strong partnership with Sutter Health for nearly a decade. They are dedicated to providing more opportunities for children to engage in sports like flag football, which promotes accessibility and inclusivity.

Long-Term Impact on Youth Health

The partnership’s foundation lies in the understanding that prevention should begin in childhood. It promotes the idea that physical, cognitive, and emotional development is vital for lifelong health. By encouraging movement and creative expression, children can cultivate essential skills for their overall well-being.

Collaborative Goals

• Create safe and enjoyable environments for children to play and challenge themselves.
• Build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging among youth.
• Invest in programs that foster healthy habits early in life.

Dr. Denah Taggart, chair of Sutter’s Children’s Health Service Line, noted the importance of collaborations such as this one, which serve the communities Sutter Health supports. Similarly, Dr. Rebecca Fazilat, a pediatrician with Sutter, emphasized that early health initiatives lay the groundwork for a lifetime of health and wellness.

Expanding Current Programs

This partnership aims to expand existing initiatives like Girls Flag Football and other wellness programs. The goal is to provide greater health opportunities for youth, particularly in underserved communities. Past initiatives include Sophie’s Place, a music therapy space at Sutter Medical Center, dedicated to empowering young patients through creative arts.

Overall, the new partnership between Sutter Health, Steve Young, and the Forever Young Foundation seeks to significantly improve youth health outcomes in Northern California.