FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 20, 2025

Obesity Action Coalition’s 2025 Your Weight Matters National Convention Celebrated 20 Years of Advocacy, Education and Community

Tampa, FL – The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) hosted a record-breaking Your Weight Matters National Convention in Washington, DC, celebrating its 20th Anniversary with historic milestones in advocacy, education and family engagement. Attendees deepened their understanding of obesity as a complex, chronic disease through expert-led sessions covering topics like weight management, mental health and healthy lifestyle strategies. The event fostered a supportive environment where both first-time and returning attendees connected and shared experiences.

The event brought together 75 advocates for the largest Advocacy Hill Day in OAC history. Through 59 meetings on Capitol Hill, OAC participants elevated the voices of those living with obesity, pushing for policy solutions that impact millions of Americans.

OAC also awarded 30 scholarships—the most ever awarded—thanks to the Rob Portinga Memorial Scholarship Fund. This initiative removes financial barriers, enabling more individuals to access the life-changing education and community the convention provides.

The OAC’s Thrive Together Program for Youth and Families also had its most successful year yet, with 20 families joining the event. This program offers tailored support and resources addressing challenges like weight management, body image and mental health in a safe, inclusive environment.

“After being at YWM2025, I witnessed hope in a whole new form through the Thrive Together Program. I saw the progress already being made by the kids and parents involved. I saw the community OAC is building. And I saw young people who knew they belonged.” said Jess Perreca Jr. a scholarship recipient and OAC Community Member.

The OAC is excited to announce that the 14th Annual Your Weight Matters National Convention will take place at the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld on July 23-25, 2026. Learn more at YWMConvention.com

About
YWM2025 is proudly supported by reputable companies in the health industry. National Sponsors signed on to date include: Platinum Level — Eli Lilly and Company, Novo Nordisk; Gold Level — Boehringer Ingelheim; Silver Level — Amgen and Rhythm Pharmaceuticals; Bronze Level — Boston Scientific, Currax Pharmaceuticals, Genentech, seca, Wave Life Sciences; Patron Level — Bariatric Advantage, Zealand Pharma. The OAC is still accepting National Sponsors and exhibitors. Please contact us at (800) 717-3117 for more information.