Over the past 18 months, the YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties has been involved in an effort known by Ys across the country as Pioneering Healthier Communities (PHC).  Funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, PHC seeks to engage community leaders in partnerships to create environmental and public policy changes that will positively influence health and well-being.

 

Burlington-Riverfront YMCA Executive Director Kevin Quinn has provided Y leadership to the effort, which focuses on the City of Burlington. The end result will be a ‘fitness trail’ along the Burlington Riverfront Promenade. 

 

"This spring we will be installing the fitness trail, with full support from the City of Burlington,” says Quinn.  "It will be a great resource and a strong symbol that the Y and the City of Burlington support healthy lifestyles.  What better way to give people options for active living than by providing fitness equipment that the public can access for free.” 

 

Community partners who have been engaged in the PHC planning process include representatives from the Burlington County Health Department, Lourdes Hospital, Rutgers Cooperative Extension, the Burlington County Sheriff’s Office, Prevention Plus, and City of Burlington administration. 

 

"We’ve had great support from a great team,” adds Quinn.  "Other communities involved in this effort across the country have worked to enhance walkability and pedestrian safety, access to fresh fruits and vegetables, and physical education requirements in schools.  Our plan was created by our local team, which will help lead to its success long-term.”

 

"No one person or organization can solve the nation’s chronic disease crisis alone,” says Tim Kerrihard, Y President/CEO.  "Our efforts are founded on the strong belief that local communities can work together to create change.  Now, thanks to PHC, people in Burlington and the surrounding communities have a great option to get healthy.”

 

Adds Quinn, "This work could not be timelier – for kids and families in our Burlington community and for our Y.  As always, the Y leads from behind, but from a position of strength.  We can’t wait to see the fruit of our efforts come to life.”

 

The fitness trail will be installed during the spring of 2011.  Watch for an invitation to our ribbon-cutting ceremony sometime in early summer.