Natomas is known for Power Balance Pavilion and floodplains. Now some church leaders are hoping the community north of downtown becomes associated with something else: physically fit residents.

Ten congregations in the Natomas area are joining with local business and community leaders in a 90-day effort called "Live Well Natomas."

The program began Sunday and runs through April 6. The goal? To get the community's 38,000 residents in better shape – physically, emotionally and spiritually.

"I have a passion to see people live well," said the Rev. Glenn Sayers, pastor of Natomas Crossroads Church and the organizer of "Live Well Natomas." He is a cancer survivor who wants to help others lead healthy lifestyles. "I thought this would be something positive for our church to invest in."

A new year, new resolutions. All too often resolutions made Jan. 1 are forgotten within a week, but Sayers said his congregation is committed to the program. The church budgeted $25,000 for the effort, with costs going toward printing fliers, distributing T-shirts and prizes. They have launched a website, www.livewellnatomas.org, with more information about the health challenge.

"This isn't only about losing weight," Sayers said. He points to rising rates of diabetes and related health problems. "This program is about taking steps to live well and having fun."

The church's efforts seem to be paying off. More than 950 residents have signed up to participate in a weekly walk around Natomas Regional Park called "loop the lake." Another 500 have committed to attend Wednesday night health and nutrition talks. The grand prize of a cruise will be awarded in a raffle. Participants receive tickets every time they take part in an event.

Terri Wilson, 50, is a registered nurse and Crossroads member. "My goal is to add 5,000 steps to my day," Wilson said. "People think of that as a really big goal, but it's not. It's about 2 miles and it doesn't have to be done in a row."

Losing weight is the goal most participants will probably have, say organizers.

Carol Moses, in charge of organizing the midweek talks called "Can't Weight til Wednesday," wants to lose 10 pounds over the 90 days. How? "Well, that's what I'm going to learn," Moses said.

Sayers said other churches and community leaders were eager to be a part of the program. The pastor believes houses of worship should make themselves as vital to a community as a police station or fire department. Crossroads offers a free medical clinic every month. "Living Well Natomas," is another part of that vision.

What is his goal for the 90 days?

"Drink more water, be more positive and try to lose 8 pounds," Sayers said.

Of all three, the most difficult challenge ahead is to be more positive, he said. "There's a lot of negative news, that's why we need to focus on something positive and live well."

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