HealthyPlanet :
An Organization Teaching That the Health of Our Planet Starts with a Healthy You...

Each month, a meeting hall in western Suffolk County fills with up to 200 enthusiastic people who come to learn and share. A potluck of colorful and delicious plant based dishes are offered, followed by a guest speaker, who is well-versed on health, environmental, and/or current social issues. This fun and educational Dinner/Lecture Series is one of several programs offered by HealthyPlanet, a Long Island based, volunteer-run, non-profit organization supporting health, personal growth and environmental responsibility.

HealthyPlanet’s goals center upon education which empowers and inspires individual and global change through personal choices. Building on community and friendships, the organization welcomes everyone. The focus is on teaching simple solutions for the grave environmental problems that face us today—from global warming to world hunger and the proliferation of genetically engineered foods—emphasizing that our daily choices really do make a huge difference.

So while some of the problems are vast and global, HealthyPlanet teaches that the solutions lie in something as basic as our thoughts -- since everything that humankind creates, is at first just a thought, and therein lies the key. All we need to do is watch our thoughts with care, be clear about our values, and translate those values into the choices we make on a daily basis. It’s simple, but given the many competing influences we encounter daily, we all need support!

HealthyPlanet’s mission statement, as explained by Executive Director, Bob DiBenedetto is: “to promote food choices and lifestyles that respect our bodies and our shared environment. We educate people about the deep connection among all life on Earth, and the powerful effect our everyday choices can have on creating a cleaner, healthier and more compassionate world.”

HealthyPlanet members have been involved in running supportive and inspiring events to further this awareness since 1990. In addition to the popular Dinner/Lecture Series, HealthyPlanet also created the Healthy School Lunch Program (HSLP)— designed to encourage community-wide efforts aimed at educating both students and parents about the now well-documented reasons for choosing a more healthful diet. HSLP volunteers and staff have worked in dozens of school districts throughout Long Island since 1994, helping many concerned parents and school officials reduce junk food—focusing instead on providing less processed and more plant-based foods throughout the school. This improves both the short and long term health of students, including mental clarity. Additionally, working with the schools offers a unique opportunity to educate parents about the importance of healthful eating at home. The HSLP is a member of National Alliance for Nutrition and Activity.

HealthyPlanet also regularly runs social events, such as their Restaurant Outings and Sunset Cruise. Combining delicious plant-based foods, live music, and knowledgeable speakers, these socials are a blending of fun and growth-promoting education.

HealthyPlanet's newest venture is its radio program on 90.1 FM, WUSB, enabling their message to reach a larger audience. Future shows will be airing one or more Fridays each month from 6-7 PM, and are available worldwide via the internet. Dates will be posted and past shows will be available online at HealthyPlanet’s website at www.healthy-planet.org.

HealthyPlanet also reaches out to community groups, legislators, corporations and organizations. While maintaining both an eNewsletter and website, HealthyPlanet is currently expanding these online resources to include lifestyle tips, recipes, inspiring articles, links and a guide to working in your school district.

HealthyPlanet encourages your participation. Combining your unique talent with their experienced team can bring about significant changes. To receive their eNewsletter, more info or to get involved, contact them at www.healthy-planet.org or call 631-421-5591.