SARASOTA COUNTY - For the second consecutive year, Sarasota County has been recognized by the Florida Department of Health as a Healthy Weight Community Champion. Sarasota County was one of 65 communities throughout the state to achieve this distinction this year—an increase from the 38 communities recognized in 2014.

A formal presentation of the 2015 Healthy Weight Community Champion Award will be led by DOH-Sarasota Health Officer Chuck Henry along with leaders from the following Sarasota County departments: IFAS/UF Cooperative Extension; Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT); Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources; and Libraries during the Sarasota County Commissioner meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 9 a.m. at the Sarasota County Administration Center, 1660 Ringling Boulevard in Sarasota.

Between August and December 2014, county and local governments were invited to submit best-practice policies they have implemented in their jurisdictions over the year. City and county governments submitted evidence-based policies to increase physical activity and improve nutrition.

A list of all the 65 Champion Communities and best practices is at http://www.HealthiestWeightFlorida.com/recognition.

The Community Champions program is part of Florida Department of Health’s Healthiest Weight Florida initiative. Healthiest Weight Florida is a public-private collaboration bringing together state agencies, not-for-profit organizations, businesses and entire communities to help Florida’s children and adults make consistent, informed choices about healthy eating and active living.

For information about DOH-Sarasota, go to http://www.sarasotahealth.org