For Instance...
Here's a list of steps community advocates like you can take to promote healthier eating and more physical activity, whether you're a private citizen or an elected/appointed official:
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As a private citizen: |
As an elected or appointed official: |
Endorse policy development.
- Identify and publicize examples of successful recreation policies that promote physical activity
- Volunteer for neighborhood, city or state advisory boards that influence physical activity (e.g., zoning boards that set policies for sidewalks or recreation commissions that allow open gyms)
- Join advocacy groups that promote "truth in labeling" for food sold in restaurants, convenience stores, snack bars and other places
- Advocate for sale of healthier snack selections at grocery store checkout stands
- Prepare and publicize a report of vending machine beverage and snack selections (and costs) in places frequented by youth (e.g., libraries, theaters, convenience stores or sports centers)
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Endorse policy development.
- Support committees of citizens, business leaders, members of faith communities and youth to study health promotion policies
- Attend state and national conferences that focus on effective policy-making for healthy lifestyles
- Recommend committee members who understand health promotion to zoning boards, recreation commissions, health advisory groups
- Support increased sidewalks, walking/bike paths in all new neighborhood developments
- Support work site wellness plans for working parents and all adults so they model, promote and improve their health
- Testify at state committee meetings considering incentives and insurance benefits for health-promoting activities (e.g., benefits for family gym memberships)
- Support community proclamations for "Walk Kansas," family wellness weeks, youth sports celebrations
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Support programs.
- Volunteer for coalitions applying for grants to build walking trails, support farmers' markets, increase recreation and intramural sports
- Write letters-to-the-editor commending restaurants, snack bars and others that offer healthier food choices
- Volunteer to promote, staff and contribute to intramural youth sports teams
- Testify at local and state committee meetings in support of funding for new and expanded physical activity programs
- Send notes of thanks to businesses and elected/appointed officials who support healthier lifestyles for community youth
- Volunteer to bring healthier food and bottled water at meetings, events you attend
- Promote exercise by modeling physical activity in your neighborhood
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Support programs.
- Seek out grant-funding opportunities for your community to expand walking trails, provide for non-competitive recreation for youth
- Pursue business incentives and investments for local firms providing healthier food/beverage options for school meals and youth agencies
- Agree to cost-share or match federal or state grants with local dollars or your volunteer time
- Serve on advisory committees and boards that oversee healthy lifestyles programs
- Encourage governmental and organizational workers to establish a personal wellness plan for their families and themselves
- Volunteer to coach sports teams, recreational activities
- Lend your support to community walking campaigns, bike-athons
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