Kalamazoo walkers, runners can help community win grant

There's no doubt that exercise helps those who do it. Now Kalamazoo walkers and runners have a chance to help the community at the same time.

 

In an event called MI Big Green Gym Blue Community Challenge, Kalamazoo is competing against the cities of Marquette and Traverse City to see which can log the most minutes or miles of exercise. The eight-week competition got under way April 27 and each of the three communities will win a grant for their participation.

 

But when the Blues Community Challenge ends in July the city whose residents log the most activity -- walking, jogging, or running -- will win the biggest prize. The grants will be used to support public health and wellness investments in the communities. (Right now Marquette and Traverse City have moved into the lead.) 

 

This inaugural challenge is is sponsored by the Michigan Recreation and Park Association (MRPA), in partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). 

 

The sponsors are not only looking promote better health among Michigan residents but they hope Michigan residents to take advantage of the state’s extensive network of quality parks and pursue recreation options at 101 state parks and hundreds of community recreation agencies that offer a wide variety of physical activities.

 

The City of Kalamazoo's Parks and Recreation Department is participating in the challenge.