Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Lawrence Parks and Recreation

TO: CC:	Diane Stoddard, Interim City Manager Ernie Shaw, Interim Parks and Recreation Director Casey Toomay, Assistant City Manager Brandon McGuire, Assistant to the City Manager Gayle Sigurdson, Recreation Programmer
FROM:	Jimmy Gibbs, Recreation Operations Manager
DATE:	December 15, 2015
RE:	Kansas Health Foundation Grant Application Request

Summary

The Lawrence Parks and Recreation Department Lifelong Recreation division is requesting permission to apply for a Recognition Grant from the Kansas Health Foundation.  This grant will create a pilot outreach program offering on-site fitness programs at specific senior housing locations.  The grant, valued up to $25,000, requires a simple web-based application and has no matching funds or reporting requirements. Grant application deadline is March 15, 2016. 

Background

Regular physical activity is one of the most important things older adults can do for their health. Additionally, group exercise is proven to have extra benefits including social contact that fosters improvement of mood and a sense of well-being. 

However, limited access to group exercise creates a health disparity.  This on-site program addresses transportation and fees, two factors that greatly reduce access to community fitness and exercise opportunities. 

Offering Parks and Recreation classes on-site in apartments serving seniors assures the same quality of instruction offered in community classes without the need for transportation.  Locating these classes in subsidized housing will serve those residents less likely to have income for registration fees.  By first focusing on independent living, we will meet the needs of community residents without access to the professional therapy services available in retirement communities. 

Kansas Health Foundation Recognition Grants

Recognition Grants expand the Kansas Health Foundation’s support to a broad range of organizations throughout the state.  These grants are targeted for organizations and agencies proposing meaningful and charitable projects that fit within the Foundation’s mission of improving the health of all Kansans.

Action

Direct staff to apply for a Kansas Health Foundation Recognition Grant to offer onsite exercise and fitness classes at select subsidized housing locations.