The Metro Denver Health and Wellness Commission is working to make metro Denver America's Healthiest Community with a focus on promoting programs and policies that improve physical, environmental and mental health across all sectors of our community.

Colorado has an edge on quality of life; our low obesity and high physical activity rates position us among the nation's most fit. Our metro Denver economy benefits as well - healthy people are more energetic and productive employees and place fewer demands on the healthcare system. Unfortunately, mirroring the national trend, physical activity is declining and overweight and obesity are increasing among Coloradans of all ages. Still more troubling is that obesity is linked to chronic, yet preventable, diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and cancer.

The MDHWC is working together to produce a strategic plan focused on metropolitan Denver that will include home, school, employer and community based strategies to stem or reverse growth in Colorado's obesity rate. The MDHWC will also research and compile measurements to benchmark our region's progress.

Established with initial support from the Center for Human Nutrition at UCDHSC, Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, the Metro Mayors Caucus, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, the Denver Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau, America on the Move, and other key stakeholders, the MDHWC is managed by Civic Results.