The BOUNCE program takes standard nutrition and physical activity intervention to the next level by fostering the mother-child partnership; heeding the cultural and gender specific behaviors that shape perceptions about food, exercise, and body image; and promoting the healthy lifestyle as fun. Dr. Norma Olvera, the Project Director explains, “The idea behind the program is to teach young girls about positive body image and healthy food and exercise choices.” Initially implemented in 2005 as a summer program for 7–14 year old Hispanic and African American girls, Dr. Olvera received funding in 2006 to expand the 2-week BOUNCE Lite program to include the girls’ mothers. This expanded BOUNCE project is a 15-week program held during the regular school year.

Mission

Our mission is to empower Hispanic and African American girls between the ages of 9-14 and their families to adopt a healthy lifestyle by incorporating healthy food choices, daily exercise, and positive self-esteem in a supportive environment.

History

• 2005- The BOUNCE program began as a summer program to promote a healthy lifestyle in Hispanic and African American girls
• 2006 - The BOUNCE program now includes Hispanic and African American mothers as well as their daughters. Nationally, it is one of the few programs with a strong family involvement.
• 2009 -Due to its remarkable success, the BOUNCE program is offered as an after school program
• 2011 - BOUNCE has expanded to include cooking demonstrations with our BOUNCE Chef to teach quick and fun ways to eat healthier.
• 2012  BOUNCE now offers grocery shopping tours,  BOUNCE 5K Run/Walk and much more community events!!!

BOUNCE Sponsors

Testimonials

"I loved the BOUNCE program.  Now my mom and I go to grocery shopping together.  We make sure to read food labels to select better healthy food choices.  We walktogether 3 times a week after school.  I feel like like . . . my mother now understands me."    KD (daughter)

BOUNCE Healthy Lifestyle Summer Program for Girls
Department of Psychological, Health, and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 3657 Cullen Blvd. Rm #491, Houston TX 77204-5029