In the past four decades, obesity rates in the U.S. have soared. This increase is seen most dramatically among youth. More than 23 million children and teenagers ages 2 to 19 are considered obese or overweight—a statistic that health experts consider an epidemic. While these stats seem dismal, opportunities exist to make changes. And September—Childhood Obesity Awareness Month—is a great time to take action.

At Landscape Structures, we create play products that encourage children of all abilities to get outside, play together and be healthy. Our Cofounder Barb King (1946-2008) was passionate about showing kids how to lead healthier lives and to appreciate nature, which is why she created the Säjai® Foundation, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching children the value of living a healthier life by encouraging them to experience the outdoors, be active and make smart nutrition choices. Establishing the Säjai Foundation was one of Barb’s greatest achievements, and the Foundation is proud to continue her work.

The Säjai Foundation is hosting the Amazing Walk! on Saturday, Sept. 29, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the North Mississippi Regional Park in Minneapolis. The Amazing Walk! isn’t your typical 5K. During the event, you can try your hand at geocaching, parkour, dancing, wall-climbing and much more. This is the Foundation’s second annual Amazing Walk!, which is intended to help bring awareness to the work being done to battle childhood obesity.

Learn more about the Säjai Foundation and its Wise Kids programs, and get registered to participate in the Amazing Walk!