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Purpose & Structure

The Missouri Council for Activity and Nutrition (MOCAN) is a coalition composed of representatives from statewide and local agencies, institutions, organizations, other coalitions, and individuals who collaborate to implement policy, systems and environmental change to improve physical activity and eating behaviors of Missourians. MOCAN is supported and coordinated by the University of Missouri Extension and consists of a Steering Committee, several Work Groups, and the Healthy Weight Advisory Committee. Members find shared interest and projects by meeting in work groups in specific policy, systems and environmental settings.

Vision

The wellbeing of Missourians will be significantly improved through increased access to healthy eating and active living.

Mission

MOCAN fosters and supports healthy eating and active living strategies to improve the wellbeing and quality of life of Missouri residents. MOCAN fosters collaboration between members and work groups as well as with federal, state, and local stakeholders. Members are active policy makers, educators, practitioners, and advocates of healthy living and encourage collaborative partnerships and best practices across environments.

Major Values

  • Nutrition and activity — Healthy eating and physical activity promotes overall health and prevents or improves chronic disease outcomes.
  • Evidence-based approach — Evidence-based approaches must be used to improve nutrition and increase physical activity.
  • Many levels of influence — For approaches to be effective, individual, local, and state stakeholders must support the changes being implemented.