Chris “Ludacris” Bridges kicks off Luda Day weekend with giving back to the community, which he says is the most gratifying component of his five day event.

“Supporting our youth includes educating and empowering them about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle-responsible dating, greener communities, and healthy eating habits. Eating right and exercise promote good habits, both mentally and physically. We want to show young people that physical activity and eating well can be fun and a part of your everyday life.”

Dobbs Elementary School, welcomed the Ludacris Foundation back on Friday afternoon for a day of activities associated with healthy eating and exercise. Project S.L.I.D.E. pumped up the students for Ludacris’s arrival by teaching them an easy dance routine and a fun two-step of the Wobble.

Once Ludacris, entered the building the kids began to look mesmerized, excited that he had returned since visiting their school in the spring to plant their edible garden. Ludacris took a moment to address the students and let them know how proud he was of them, and how he enjoyed coming back to their school to continue his efforts to promote healthy living.

“The teaching garden that we planted in the spring was a big hit we wanted to continue the teaching moments. Students, teachers, parents and grandparents particpated in the learning, growing and harvesting” said Roberta Shields, President of the Ludacris Foundation.

Once the students finished getting their heart rates up, Ludacris faced his toughest media interview; the students. Two students from Dobbs Elementary had the opportunity to interview Ludacris, asking him everything from what he thinks about the U.S. Government to why he started the Ludacris Foundation. Throughout his interview he stressed the importance of following through with Michelle Obama’s plan of raising healthy and smart kids, and how his foundation strives to make a difference in the communities that have been a direct influence on his life and career.

Ludacris brought with him his personal chef Willie Box, who picked herbs and vegetables from the school’s garden, to prepare students with a yummy yet nutritious snack. Chef Box made the students aware that not only were they eating from their garden, but that snacks and food in general can taste great without all the extra sugars and toxins that some processed foods contain. His special treat–sweet potato cupcakes,which were a hit among students–and teachers!

The city of Atlanta certainly has a good time with all the parties, basketball games and celebrity sightings that come along with LudaDay, but the most rewarding event of the entire weekend has to be the outreach and the smiles that came across the students faces when Ludacris and friends took time out to spend the day at their school!

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Photo Credit: Chanda M. Scott