Develop a national program that would provide incentives for communities to increase physical activity levels among the age 50+ population.

Develop a planning committee for the program.
Develop a process to identify physical activity-friendly communities.
Examine the impact of environmental factors on communities.
Identify meaningful incentives to entice communities to become involved.
Share best practices and support materials to help organizations replicate successful programs at the community level.

President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Lead Organizations)

Foundations, Health Canada, National Conference of State Legislatures, Office of the Surgeon General, SGMA International, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Conference of Mayors, and other organizations.

The program committee would partner with the Department of Health and Human Services and/or other government agencies to develop and market the community incentive program.

Coalition building with national organizations and government agencies.

Incentives should be designed to encourage community participation.
The program should consider the differences in population demographics in providing incentives.
Issues related to diversity and cultural specificity should be addressed.

The President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have collaborated to develop a mechanism for recognizing organizations, groups, and/or communities that have made a significant contribution to the promotion of physically active lifestyles. Working with partners in the federal government and beyond, PCPFS and CDC are coordinating a variety of initiatives intended to promote physical activity throughout society.

The Administration on Aging launched a national You Can! Steps to Healthier Aging campaign as a strategy that builds on the commitment and local experience of community organizations in every state. The agency will provide a complete kit to participating organizations that cater to seniors that includes activity guides, publicity templates, and rewards for participants. In turn, the participating organization agrees to implement campaign elements in its community.

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