Founded in 2014, with support from the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority, we work with residents, businesses, schools, and local governments to develop community programs that create a culture of exercise in the region. Drawing from evidence-based interventions and the West Virginia Physical Activity Plan, with the advisory assistance of Richmond Sports Backers as a proven model, we have taken an asset focused approach that encourages and supports the local populations in creating their own means of increasing physical activity.
By transforming West Virginia into a more physically active, healthier community, we improve individual’s lives –reversing the alarming rates of heart disease, diabetes, and shortened life expectancy that our state faces. Further, we experience the ripple effect of building a stronger community and economy by strengthening the health of the workforce.
A happy and healthy community will attract visitors, new businesses and jobs.
Wellness is a personal matter, and we hope to make those personal decisions easier for community members by increasing their options to join groups they’re most comfortable with. Coworkers, neighbors, classmates, and family are often those who can provide the support and motivation people need to get moving and stay active. Community Captains will motivate and lead their neighbors and friends in living an active and healthy lifestyle. Join online lifestyle management classes such as the Diabetes Prevention Program to prevent type 2 diabetes.
Our youngest community members are not only the key to our future, but also the ones who create fresh, fun, new ideas about how to get active. They need safe, accessible places to play and confidence that their ideas are being heard. That’s why we will work with the region’s youth to create and establish effective exercise activities as well as promoting overall healthy habits within Kids Run Clubs.
