Dr. Mike Perko, a professor of public health education in UNCG’s School of Health and Human Sciences, has created 500 Fist Bumps – a public health effort delivered through youth and recreational sports organizations. The initiative uses fist bumps as a connection point for building care, trust and a supportive environment for kids.

Perko says kids need this now more than ever – especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. Surgeon General released several advisories about the impact of social media on children, youth mental health, and the epidemic of loneliness. And with 60 million kids a year playing youth sports, Perko sees the playing field, rink, court, or pool as the perfect venue for this effort.

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