In 2006, Hebni developed the K.Y.D.S. Take Charge! (Keeping Your Diet Straight) after-school program to target underserved elementary and middle school students who are at-risk for overweight and obesity. The program is held throughout the school year and during the summer at partnering schools and community centers. K.Y.D.S. Take Charge! educates youth about proper nutrition and exercise. Components of the program include healthy cooking classes, tennis lessons, and regular BMI readings to monitor their progress. Hebni partners with Posh Rock Tennis to provide the weekly tennis lessons, while registered dietitians from Hebni provide weekly nutrition education. The K.Y.D.S. program utilizes the USDA’s evidence-based Team Nutrition curriculum which has activities for elementary, middle, and high school students. Hebni’s KYDS program provides age-appropriate nutrition education which encourages youth to eat more fruits and vegetables, increase water consumption, and maintain a healthy weight. Lessons focus on identifying healthy foods, making healthy snacks, healthy vs. fast food, portion control, and drinking healthy beverages. K.Y.D.S. participants learn the importance of daily exercise and receive weekly tennis lessons through a partnership with Posh Rock Tennis.
Hebni has served more than 900 minority youth through the KYDS program. An average of 82% of youth completing the KYDS program show improved knowledge in nutrition and healthy eating habits based on pre- and post-tests and surveys. In addition, approximately 60% of youth who fall under the “Obese” or “Over-Weight” guidelines, reduce their BMI by the end of the 8-week program.