Programs to Highlight from Golden Recreation Forum

The following are some of the exemplary programs that were presented at the Recreation Forum in Golden, Colorado, on March 1, 2007:

The mayors of Colorado recently started a program called "Mayors on the Move" to encourage citizens to get more exercise. The goal is to walk 10,000 steps per day. All of the mayors wear pedometers to track their daily progress.
Chuck Baroch, Mayor of Golden, Colorado

Asheville Teens Outside is a great example of a self-sustaining, replicable program that gets teens outside. It brought together local complementary partners like the local Parks and Rec Department, UNC at Asheville, and local outdoor businesses.

Outdoor Industry Foundation with the National Wildlife Federation are currently running three programs that have a sustainable impact on getting youth active.

1) Outdoor Idols- Find youth doing amazing things in outdoor recreation who want to pass their passion on to the next generation and give them a platform. Kids need role models. They have them in sports, why not in outdoor recreation?

2) Teens Outside- Partners local parks and recreation programs, local businesses, and colleges. The program brings together kids who need exposure to outdoor activities with equipment and college kids who are pursuing careers in outdoor recreation. Programs teach kids in their own community in a sustainable fashion with a positive mentor.

3) Great American Backyard Campout- Camping is the gateway activity for many American families to outdoor recreation; initiative encourages people to get reconnected to the outdoors through camping.

These programs are successful for three key aspects:
-There has to be a mentor. Kids have to be invited into the outdoors by someone they trust
-Programs need to be sustainable. Events are great, but programs live on
-Kids need to have a good, safe, positive experience, which means good equipment and knowledgeable guides.
Michelle Barnes, Vice President, Outdoor Industry Foundation