Explanation
BACKGROUND: The purpose of this legislation is to authorize the City Clerk to enter into a grant agreement with the Greater Community Foundation in support of the Soulful Steps program. Soulful Steps is a line dancing program offered twice monthly and are led by experienced instructors who specialize in creating a welcoming and energetic atmosphere. The sessions will:
1. Increase physical activity levels, which helps reduce the risk of obesity and chronic diseases.
2. Create an enjoyable and accessible way for participants to stay active.
3. Build a sense of community and social support, enhancing mental well-being.
4. Provide education on the importance of physical activity in maintaining overall health.
The goals of the program include:
1. Promote Physical Activity: Encourage at least 50 participants to engage in regular, heart-healthy exercise through line dancing by the end of the first year.
2. Foster Health Education: Provide participants with resources and information on the benefits of exercise and healthy living from a local nutritionist who will teach how to shop healthy and prepare healthy meals.
3. Expand Program Accessibility: Evaluate the program’s success and explore the feasibility of expanding to a weekly schedule after the first year.
4. Provide Access to Healthy Food: Provide monthly transportation to full-service grocery stores.
Soulful Steps began planning, marketing, and recruitment efforts in January and February of this year. The program officially launched in March and the first session took place. And from April through December, dance classes occur every two weeks. Finally, in December, the program will be evaluated for potential expansion.
The funding provided by this ordinance is intended to be issued to the organizers on a reimbursement basis because programming has already begun for 2025, as indicated by the aforementioned timeline.
FISCAL IMPACT: Funds are available within the Neighborhood Initiatives subfun...
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