Faces of Floridians with Type 2 Diabetes

Parents, Grandparents, Cousins...and maybe even You?

We're committed to meeting folks where they are on their health journey

and providing the resources & support needed to move forward

Our Mission

At Smart Health Initiatives, we are dedicated to transforming community health through engagement, education, and empowerment. We create inclusive, welcoming spaces where individuals can access vital health resources, participate in meaningful wellness activities, and take proactive steps toward better health. Our Walk/Run events go beyond fitness—they are vibrant community experiences that provide free health screenings, essential health education, and a sense of belonging for all.

A family is sitting on a couch talking to each other.

A wooden table topped with vegetables and fruits with the words `` healthy fitness diet '' written on it.

Vision

We envision a future where every individual, regardless of background or circumstance, has access to the knowledge, tools, and support needed to take control of their health. By fostering strong community connections and bridging the gap between health awareness and action, we strive to inspire lasting, positive change in the well-being of those we serve.

Diabetes by the Numbers in Florida

Statistics provided by the American Diabetes Association

95%

of those diagnosed,

have Type 2 diabetes

12.5%

of the adult population have diabetes - (2.1M)

546K

have diabetes, but don't know it yet

Events and Initiatives

❏ Community Engagement

❏ Community Education

❏ Community Outreach

A young girl wearing a yellow vest with the number 445 on it is giving a peace sign.

Fit Futures: Building a Healthier Next Generation

Fit Futures is a year-round movement designed to help kids run smarter, eat better, and overcome financial barriers to fitness. We teach proper running techniques to prevent injury, provide nutritional guidance for making healthier choices even in food-insecure environments, and ensure that cost is never a barrier by covering registration fees and providing running shoes when needed. By empowering young people with the tools to succeed, we’re shaping a future where every child has the opportunity to move, grow, and thrive.

This initiative is proudly supported by a dynamic collaboration of community leaders and organizations, including Black Girls Run, Tampa Parks & Recreation, Gasparilla Distance Classic, Tampa Bay Collard Greens Festival, and the American Diabetes Association. Together, we’re working to build a healthier future for our youth.

But we can’t do it without you. Your support directly fuels race registrations, healthy meals, and essential gear for the kids who need it most.

Click the “Fuel Fit Futures” button and be the reason a child crosses their first finish line. Together, we can build a healthier future, one step at a time.

Meet Our Board of Directors

Our SHI board is comprised of dedicated leaders from all walks of life who believe in the power of community and the importance of better health for everyone. They represent a variety of organizations and bring their time, talents, and heart to support the mission of Smart Health Initiatives. Together, they help guide our work, grow our impact, and keep us connected to the people and communities we serve.