Celebrating Two Decades of Advocacy and Support for Obesity Awareness

20 Years of Empowering Lives

The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) is marking a significant milestone this year as it celebrates its 20th anniversary. Founded in 2005, OAC has grown from a small group of dedicated advocates into a nationwide nonprofit organization with over 85,000 members. This journey over two decades is a testament to the coalition's unwavering commitment to empowering individuals impacted by obesity through advocacy, awareness-raising efforts, education, and support.

Obesity remains a pervasive issue in society, often accompanied by stigma and misunderstanding. OAC has consistently worked towards eliminating weight bias, enhancing access to necessary care, and providing resources and support for affected individuals and their families. Reflecting on its past achievements, OAC is not resting on its laurels. The coalition is eager to embrace the future and invite more people to join the cause.

As part of its anniversary celebrations, OAC aims to increase its membership by 20,000 this year, strengthening its collective voice to foster inclusivity and support within the community. Membership is free, allowing anyone affected by obesity, their loved ones, healthcare providers, and allies to join the movement and explore the valuable resources offered by OAC.

In honor of two decades of advocacy, OAC is calling on its community to contribute $20, symbolizing 20 years of service. These donations are vital for sustaining OAC’s mission, enabling the organization to fund initiatives that focus on education, combating stigma, and advocating for improved care services for those affected by obesity.

OAC’s President and CEO, Joe Nadglowski, expressed gratitude for the journey so far, stating, “Our 20th anniversary is a celebration of how far we've come and the progress we've made, but also a reminder of the work ahead. No other group represents the voice of people affected by obesity like the OAC.”

Throughout the year, OAC plans to introduce a range of engaging initiatives to inspire its members and the wider community. Key activities will include a creatively themed contest, a national step challenge to promote physical activity, and enhanced advocacy opportunities for those looking to make a difference. The culmination of the year’s events will be a special in-person celebration at OAC's Your Weight Matters National Convention in Washington, DC, in July 2025.

Moreover, OAC is excited to launch 'Thrive Together,' a brand new program aimed at supporting youth and their families affected by obesity. In an inclusive gesture, OAC will invite 20 families to participate in the convention, helping to strengthen community bonds and understanding.

For those interested in learning more about the Obesity Action Coalition's impactful journey over the past 20 years and how to get involved in their mission, further information is readily available at ObesityAction.org/20years. Together, the community can continue championing change and creating a world where individuals affected by obesity feel empowered, supported, and understood.