Kenmore Mayor David Baker was recognized for his commitment to ensuring youth eat healthier and stay active by the ‘Let’s Move’ Cities, Towns and Counties program (LMCTC) on Nov. 20.
The National League of Cities’ (NLC) Congress of Cities awarded 23 cities from across the nation for their dedication to improving the health of their residents by participating in First Lady Michelle Obama’s Lets Move! program.
“I want to make sure we have opportunities for kids in our community,” Baker said. “I think all of us [on city staff] feel very strongly about making sure that we provide the best possible environment for our kids to thrive in.”
Baker received the Legacy Award for his commitment to kid health and wellness, but also for working with other cities in the region to ensure that the whole region is committed to the Let’s Move! initiative.
“I think it feels great for us as partners, in that they are key in our advisory for community schools truly focusing on strong communities, strong families, strong students and student achievement,” said Leanna Albrecht, director of communications at the Northshore School District. “[It’s a reflection of] powerful partnerships working together to support our community.”
According to Kenmore officials the city has prioritized family and children since it was incorporated in 1998 by investing resources in outdoor activities, including canoe, kayak, crew, and dragon boat programs for all ages.
“The city of Kenmore remains an incredibly active and supportive partner of our schools, students and families…they back up that belief through actions, not just words,” said Northshore School District Superintendent Larry Francois via email. “…The city of Kenmore truly makes a positive difference for so many of our students, families and staff.”
By devoting itself to community, the city of Kenmore partnered with the YMCA to continue free lunches to disadvantaged children during the summer, held community input meetings for the design and development of city parks and built three playgrounds using the community build process.
We have such great support from the Northshore School District and other agencies to make this happen,” Baker said.
In 2009, Kenmore was named a top 10 city in the country to raise a family. It’s also designated as a Playful City USA by KaBOOM!, a non-profit organization for the creation of play spaces for children.
Kenmore now has five gold medals in the Let’s Move! program, in all five areas of achievement;
Goal I: Start Early, Start Smart: Promoting best practices for nutrition, physical activity, and screen time in early care and education settings
Goal II: My Plate, Your Place: Prominently displaying MyPlate in all municipal or county venues where food is served
Goal III: Smart Servings for Students: Expanding access to meal programs before, during and after the school day, and/or over summer months.
Goal IV: Model Food Service: Implementing healthy and sustainable food service guidelines that are aligned with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans
Goal V: Active Kids at Play: Increasing opportunities for physical activity
Also included from the area was Diane Mortenson, Mercer Island recreation superintendent, uniting citizens and community partners to positively change culture by eating healthier and staying more active.
