Capital Health Plan Celebrates 20 Years of the CHP CHAMPIONS™ Program

Program Impact and Reach

Since its inception in 2004 at Gilchrist Elementary, the Capital Health Plan (CHP) CHAMPIONS™ program has grown significantly, reaching thousands of unique students. Engaging local college students as coaches, many of whom have pursued successful careers in human performance-related fields, the program has had a profound impact on both students and coaches alike.

Highlights and Achievements:

  • Over 100,000 unique students since 2004
  • Continued expansion and positive health outcomes for participants
  • Now includes the majority of elementary and middle schools in five North Florida counties (Leon, Gadsden, Jefferson, Wakulla, and Calhoun)
  • Many coaches have pursued careers in MLB, NFL, and Special Forces
  • A consistent 5% annual shift in the At-Risk population to “Normal” BMI-Y (BMI-Y refers to the Body Mass Index specifically for children and adolescents.)
  • Positive, documented impact on discipline, absenteeism, and academic performance (State testing scores)

Key Milestones and Timeline

  • 2004-05: Pilot program launched
  • 2006: Program launch at Gilchrist Elementary
  • 2006: Partnership with Titus Sports Academy, Leon County School District, and World Class Schools of the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce, expanding the program to reach more students
  • 2007: Independent analysis and evidence-based recognition by the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, University of Minnesota, and Oregon State University
  • 2012: Program expanded to include over 17,000 students during the 2012-13 school year
  • 2020: Development of the Virtual CHP CHAMPIONS™ platform during COVID-19, providing over 40 weeks of programming accessible to all families within the service area
  • 2024/2025: Planned expansion into remote counties

Join Us

We invite schools and volunteers to get involved in the CHP CHAMPIONS™ program. Whether you’re a school looking to implement the program or a volunteer eager to make a difference, your participation is invaluable.