GEFOE Austria: Nurturing Health, Empowering Lives with the ‘Starke Freunde’ Initiative

For over 15 years, the Verein Gesundheitsförderung Österreich (Association for Health Promotion Austria), or GEFOE Austria, has been a steadfast ally for families with overweight children, passionately dedicated to fostering health and wellness. Their mission, “Discovering Health, Nurturing Potential,” underscores their commitment to supporting families through personalized interactions, recognizing the unique challenges they face in promoting healthy lifestyles.

At the heart of GEFOE Austria’s approach is a focus on building meaningful connections with children, adolescents, and parents. Their pedagogical work is characterized by direct engagement, immediate feedback, and careful planning, ensuring that every interaction contributes to positive outcomes. This personalized approach not only addresses the physical aspects of health but also nurtures emotional well-being, laying the groundwork for lasting change.

Central to GEFOE Austria’s efforts is the “Starke Freunde” (Strong Friends) initiative, a program designed to empower overweight children and adolescents through a holistic approach to health and wellness. The name “Starke Freunde” embodies a clever wordplay, reflecting both the strength of supportive friendships and the challenges of weight management. This initiative convenes weekly in Graz over an academic year, providing sessions in nutrition and sports training, known as Adiposity Training. Led by professionals, these sessions aim to instigate lasting changes in participants’ dietary and physical activity habits, promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Through the “Starke Freunde” program, GEFOE Austria creates a supportive community where participants can thrive. By blending play, sports, and enjoyable activities with a focus on nutritious and delicious food, the initiative empowers youth to take charge of their health and well-being. Beyond the physical benefits, the program fosters social connections, self-confidence, and resilience, laying the foundation for a healthier, happier future.

As GEFOE Austria continues to transform lives and promote positive lifestyle changes, their dedication to empowering families and building healthier communities remains unwavering. With the “Starke Freunde” initiative at its core, GEFOE Austria exemplifies the power of personalized support, meaningful interactions, and a holistic approach to health promotion.

Explore the transformative initiatives of GEFOE Austria as the organization collectively strives to empower lives, promote positive lifestyle changes, and build a foundation for a healthier, happier future. With “Starke Freunde” leading the way, GEFOE Austria is shaping a brighter tomorrow for families across Austria and beyond.