OUR STORY
Kids Work it Out was founded in 2005 by its champion and social philanthropist Danialle Karmanos as an independent non-profit called Danialle Karmanos' Work it Out located at One Campus Martius in Detroit, and guided by the bold mission to combat childhood obesity and improve the quality of life of children and families throughout Southeast Michigan. In 2017, the organization was acquired by the Center for Health and Community Impact and transitioned to Wayne State University, enabling an expansion of the program throughout Detroit and into neighboring cities.
The impact of the program has been profound leading to increased physical activity, better eating habits, improved academic achievement, and greater overall quality of life for its participants. Because Kids Work it Out is the most comprehensive program of its kind in the nation, led by highly dedicated yoga and mindfulness professionals, and embraced by energetic and forward-thinking school leaders, it is no wonder the impact has been so extensive. We urge you to join our movement, as supporters, champions, and participants!
Since its inception, the nationally acclaimed program merging yoga practice, mindfulness, social and emotional learning, trauma coping, and nutrition education has changed the lives of over 17,000 children. A team of expert educators, yoga teachers, researchers, and community activists developed a 12-lesson model guided by state and national education, physical activity, and nutrition standards that has been delivered in over 300 elementary school classrooms and community organizations.