Tampa, Fla. – The OAC, an educational and advocacy organization, is proud to celebrate its five year anniversary today as the only nonprofit whose sole focus is representing and helping those affected by obesity.

Today, the OAC is a 16,000 member-strong organization, led by President and CEO Joe Nadglowski and Chairperson Barbara Thompson, MLS, with a focus on bringing together those affected and working toward the eradication of weight stigma. “I’ve been a part of the OAC from day one and watching it grow and mature into the organization it is today has been simply amazing. The OAC truly represents every individual battling obesity and will continue to do so for years to come,” said Nadglowski.

Formed in 2005, the OAC has been a part of some of the most monumental advances for individuals battling obesity, such as the largest gathering of those affected by obesity – the Walk from Obesity – Walk on the Capitol, the removal of IQ testing from an insurance provider attempting to block access to care, working with elected officials to improve healthcare for those with obesity and much more. On the education front, the OAC has distributed more than 1,000,000 pieces of educational information across the United States.

The OAC is governed by a national board of directors, led by Ms. Thompson, which help shape and mold the organization’s focus. A longtime member, Ms. Thompson has seen first-hand the power of the OAC. “Being involved with the OAC has been a wonderful experience. The OAC’s powerful voice resides in its membership. Our members are the reason why the OAC has seen so much success in only five years,” said Ms. Thompson.

One of the OAC’s most recent and successful initiatives has been the launch of its health and weight awareness campaign, titled Your Weight Matters. To date, thousands of individuals have taken the Your Weight Matters challenge and pledged to talk to a healthcare professional about their weight.

“The OAC is just getting started. There is still much work to be done and all OAC members can rest assured that we will continue to fight the war on obesity and represent all those affected,” said Nadglowski.

If you would like to further the OAC’s efforts by becoming a member or making a donation, please visit www.obesityaction.org for more information.

About the OAC
The OAC is a National nonprofit charity dedicated to helping individuals affected by obesity. The OAC was formed to bring together individuals struggling with weight issues and provide educational resources and advocacy tools.