Beginnings:
Activate Quad Cities was inspired by the YMCA’s national effort, “Activate America.” Activate America is a bold, unprecedented initiative by YMCAs across the country to help children and adults discover and sustain healthier ways to live.
A key part of Activate America is the Pioneering Healthier Communities grant program. Through a partnership between YMCA-USA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, PHC grants provide funding to convene local community leaders to create a social and physical environment that encourages healthy lifestyles.
In the fall of 2006, the Two Rivers YMCA and Scott County Family Y were selected as a PHC grant recipient and Activate Quad Cities began.
Activate Quad Cities Goals:
- Reduce obesity/overweight and the health conditions that are related to it: heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, several types of cancer, osteoarthritis, asthma, and depression.
- Increase physical activity through coordinated opportunities and programs.
- Encourage healthy eating through education and a supportive environment.
- Develop culturally sensitive materials and programs.
- Partner and support other organizations working with similar goals to improve health and wellness.
- Impact the costs related to obesity and inactivity.
- Advocate for policy changes that support healthy lifestyles.
- Develop a physically fit work force to position the Quad Cities as a community of choice for new businesses.
Contact:
Christy Filby, Community Wellness Executive, Quad Cities YMCA,
797-3945, ext. 245 or cfilby@quadcitiesymca.org