In the heart of Brooklyn, an organization with a bold mission is setting a new standard for health and wellness among minority youth. For The Better Inc., a nonprofit founded by Rasheedat Ajala, is dedicated to equipping teens with the knowledge and tools they need to live healthier lives. Through a targeted, hands-on approach to nutrition and health education, Ajala and her team are creating ripple effects that extend far beyond individual lives, reshaping the health landscape of an entire community.
A Fresh Approach to Teen Health
With a unique blend of science-backed programs, real-world applications, and a commitment to equity, For The Better Inc. is tackling a fundamental but often overlooked question: How can we make health and wellness more accessible, engaging, and sustainable for teens who face significant socioeconomic barriers? The answer lies in the organization’s groundbreaking, multi-pronged approach, which combines education, community involvement, and practical skill-building.
At the core of For The Better Inc.’s programs is the belief that knowledge alone isn’t enough—teens need hands-on, culturally relevant experiences to help them connect with the idea of wellness in a meaningful way. Through interactive cooking classes, social media challenges, and workshops on fitness and nutrition, Ajala’s organization brings health education out of the classroom and into the lives of teens in a way that is both accessible and actionable.
“Our goal is to empower teens to take control of their health with confidence,” explains Rasheedat Ajala, Executive Director of For The Better Inc. “We’re not only teaching them about nutrition; we’re helping them reframe what health looks like in their lives. For many, it’s the first time they feel they have a say in their health journey.”
Addressing a Critical Need in Minority Communities
For The Better Inc.’s impact comes at a crucial time. Studies show that health disparities in minority communities, particularly among African American and Latino youth, contribute to a higher risk of chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. These issues are compounded by a lack of access to nutritious foods, safe spaces for exercise, and adequate health education—factors that are often taken for granted in more affluent communities.
“Health is a right, not a privilege,” Ajala continues. “Yet, the reality is that youth in marginalized communities often don’t have the same access to health education and resources as others. We’re here to bridge that gap, one program at a time.”
The statistics underscore the importance of For The Better Inc.’s work. Brooklyn alone has one of the highest rates of childhood obesity in New York City, with health disparities disproportionately affecting its minority population. For The Better Inc. aims to disrupt this cycle by providing teens with the education and resources they need to make informed health choices, setting them up for a healthier future.
Innovative Programs Rooted in Community Engagement
For The Better Inc. is particularly known for its Better Health for Teens program, a comprehensive initiative that goes beyond traditional health education. This program provides hands-on workshops where teens learn to cook nutritious meals, understand nutritional labels, and explore the importance of physical activity. Through social media challenges, such as the popular “Soda-Free Challenge,” teens are encouraged to make healthier choices in a way that feels relevant to their lives. These activities not only foster healthier habits but also create a sense of community and support among participants.
The nonprofit’s success is further supported by partnerships with local businesses and community organizations, which provide financial backing and in-kind contributions to help sustain and grow For The Better Inc.’s efforts. Partnerships with organizations like Ponce Bank and Black Health allow the nonprofit to scale its programs while remaining deeply rooted in the community it serves. Together, they are building a sustainable model of health education that prioritizes both impact and accessibility.
“Our partnerships have been invaluable,” says Ajala. “They allow us to reach more teens and expand our programming to create an even bigger impact. It’s a model of collective investment in community wellness that we hope will inspire other cities to do the same.”
Changing Lives, One Teen at a Time
The true measure of For The Better Inc.’s success can be seen in the lives it changes. For many teens, joining the program is a turning point, giving them new perspectives on health and equipping them with practical tools for long-term wellness. Take the story of Aja, a high school junior who struggled with unhealthy eating habits before joining the program. Today, Aja is not only committed to making healthier choices but is also inspiring friends and family to do the same.
“I never thought I’d be the kind of person who cooks for fun or cares about what I eat,” says James, another participant. “But being part of For The Better Inc. made me see that health is something I can control. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about making better choices that work for me.”
Looking Ahead: Scaling for Greater Impact
With plans to expand its programming to other parts of New York and eventually nationwide, For The Better Inc. is poised to become a leading voice in youth health advocacy. By remaining focused on the needs of its community and constantly evolving to meet those needs, the organization is setting a high standard for what health education can achieve.
“Scaling our impact means reaching more teens with tools and support that can change their lives,” says Ajala. “It’s not just about teaching; it’s about empowering a generation to value their health and understand its importance to their futures.”
For The Better Inc. is a beacon of hope and a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets purpose. With its continued growth, the organization promises to leave a lasting legacy, proving that health isn’t just about individual choices but about creating environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. For the teens of Brooklyn and beyond, that future has never looked brighter.
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