Fast Fact: On Childhood Obesity

Nearly one-third of U.S. Children aged 4 to 19 eat fast food every day, resulting in approximately six extra pounds per year, per child.

Fast food consumption has increased fivefold among children since 1970. ("Effects of Fast-Food Consumption on Energy Intake and Diet Quality Among Children in a National Household Survey," Pediatrics, January 2004.)

About GECKO

A Father's Passion to Give EVERY Child Knowledge of the Outdoors

GECKO evolved from outdoor adventures experienced by endurance runner, Morgan Murri. Inspired by the growth and transformation he witnessed in his daughter after her participation in NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School), Morgan sought an opportunity to give back to the youth of today but wasn’t sure where to start. After reading Richard Louv’s book entitled, The Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder (Amazon.com), his mission became clear. In the book, Richard Louv’s fundamental argument is that children of today are so “wired” into television, computers and video games that they’ve almost completely severed their connection to the world outdoors.

Morgan's inspiration has come from his children and his wife, Nancy. As a life long teacher (and a PhD.), Nancy's passion for children is surpassed only by her incredible understanding that change happens "one child at a time".

GECKO is actively seeking corporate and annual sponsors to partner with us as we grow our local, regional and nationwide campaigns to give every child knowledge of the outdoors. Please email morgan@joingecko.org for more information.