AIM for CHangE
AIM for CHangE Overview
Program Overview
Cycle 1
In 2018, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention awarded Mississippi State University Extension Service $5.5 million as one of 15 High Obesity Program (HOP) grantees. Mississippi HOP, locally referred to as AIM for CHangE, served 9 Mississippi counties with an adult obesity rate of 40% or greater: Sharkey, Washington, Issaquena, Sunflower, Humphreys, Holmes, Quitman, Leflore, and Noxubee. We worked with local stakeholders who wanted to improve the health of their neighborhoods by making healthy lifestyles more accessible.
Cycle 2
In 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) renewed its support for Mississippi State University Extension Service, awarding $4.4 million in additional funding to build upon the progress made in the first cycle.
In this second cycle, AIM for CHangE is expanding its efforts across Bolivar, Kemper, Claiborne, Yazoo, Coahoma, Washington, Sunflower, Humphreys, Noxubee, Sharkey, and Holmes counties. This phase focuses on policy, systems, and environmental changes to drive lasting community impact.
Our vision, mission, and values remain steadfast:
Our vision is for a healthy Mississippi that embraces active living and promotes food access.
Our mission is to prevent and reduce obesity using a combination of evidence-based strategies; a policy, systems, and environmental approach; and multi-sectoral, community-led partnerships.
We value collaboration, transparency, and personal agency.