Physical Literacy for Communities – BC
Nine communities have been selected to take part in the first intake of the province-wide Physical Literacy for Communities–British Columbia initiative. The aim of this initiative, which is supported by the Active People, Active Places, BC Physical Activity Strategy and delivered by the Sport for Life Society, is to improve the development of physical literacy in British Columbia and increase physical activity to positively impact health and well-being.
The selected communities include:
- Prince George
- Sooke-Westshore
- Oceanside
- North Shore
- Port Coquitlam
- Township and City of Langley
- Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen
- Cranbook
- Kimberley
The objective of Physical Literacy for Communities–British Columbia is to educate and activate local decision-makers, build capacity by training leaders, and create the environment to develop physical literacy in multiple settings and sectors. This initiative will provide resources and leadership services up to a value of $50,000 over a two-year period, including mentorship support toward the collaborative design and multi-sector development of physical literacy in the community. The key phases of the initiative are Educate, Train, and Mentor. Specific organizations within the respective communities will lead the project with the support of other community partners from across the sport, recreation, health, education, government, and media sectors with the goal of uniting community sectors to improve the quality of physical, cultural, intellectual, social, and mental health.
This initiative encourages community partners to create and promote physical literacy experiences, while enriching and building local capacity around the delivery of physical literacy programming. When people develop physical literacy, they are much more likely to lead active, healthy lifestyles. Health and physical activity is for everyone, and the goal of this messaging is to create a welcoming environment for any and all new collaborators. A total of 17 BC communities will be involved in the initiative, with the second intake taking place in late 2018.
