Welcome to GPAN

Our Mission

To improve the health of all Georgians by combating overweight, obesity, physical activity, and chronic disease.

Since the inception of GPAN in 1997, the mission has been to improve the health of all Georgians by combating overweight, obesity, physical inactivity, and chronic disease. GPAN, a 501(c)3 organization, is a collaboration of diverse professionals and students. Members encompass individuals, public and private businesses, and non-profit organiza-tions in the industries of healthcare, nutrition, recreation, education, business, and government.

GPAN’s activities are rooted in the advocacy and implementation of local and state policies and programs that promote physical education and active, healthy lifestyles of all Georgians throughout the lifespan. Activities include providing information, building local and state coalitions, and mobilizing corporate constituencies.

GPAN incorporates a multi-phase strategy to influence policy makers and key opinion leaders who allocate resources and who make laws, regulations, and decisions that affect the healthy eating and physical activity of all Georgians. For the purposes of this plan, policy makers include government officials, local school board members, and those persons in the private sector whose decisions influence corporate behaviors that affect the health and wellness of Georgians.

Advocacy is an integral part of GPAN’s mission and involves identifying, embracing and promoting a cause. The organization efforts will be to shape public perception and affect changes that may or may not require modifications in the law.