Media release courtesy of Project EverGreen
Cleveland (September 18, 2014) – Childhood obesity has doubled and adolescence obesity has quadrupled in the past 30 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These startling statistics are due, in part, to a lack of physical activity that stems from the lack of recreational green spaces on which to play and exercise.
To turn the tables on this disturbing trend Project EverGreen (www.projectevergreen.org), a Cleveland-based non-profit organization, is launching its “Healthy Turf. Healthy Kids.”™ Initiative. The initiative is done in collaboration with the Sports Turf Managers Association (www.stma.org) and the Turfgrass Water Conservation Alliance (www.tgwca.org).
Studies have confirmed there is significant value in having children spend time outdoors playing, and Project EverGreen’s “Healthy Turf. Healthy Kids.” initiative was created to restore and revitalize green spaces for kids to play, exercise and connect including sports fields and parks.
Not only do yards, parks and sports fields promote a healthier lifestyle, they also contribute to economic growth, community development and improve the environment.
“This initiative underscores the core objectives Project EverGreen stands for which is to develop green spaces to help communities thrive,” says Cindy Code, executive director of Project EverGreen. “Our goal is to ensure children have access to green space to play and exercise.”
The project involves aerating, fertilizing, and overseeding the playing surface as well as removing rocks and bricks embedded in the soil. Local contractors, led by Weed Man Cleveland, will oversee the renovation work that also is scheduled for completion by early October.
“Safe and healthy playing surfaces are vital for our kids’ enjoyment and development,” Code says. “Understanding the value and benefits of green spaces to our communities from an early age is crucial to the long-term sustainability of outdoor spaces.”
Plans call for additional “Healthy Turf. Healthy Kids.” projects in select cities across the United States in 2015.
Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Project EverGreen is a national non-profit educational organization committed to preserving and enhancing green spaces in our communities where we live, work and play. Project EverGreen’s revitalization projects result in beneficial green spaces that provide positive settings for kids and adults alike to relax and connect with their community and enjoy the outdoors. For more information on Project EverGreen visit www.projectevergreen.org or www.facebook.com/ProjectEverGreen.
Cindy Code
Project EverGreen
440.290.4521
Jeff Fenner
B Communications
440.525.1840
Plant Something Massachusetts is a project of Massachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association, and was originally established in partnership with Massachusetts Flower Growers’ Association.