Komoka, ON – Key decision makers from across Middlesex County are meeting today to discuss ideas and consider innovative ways to make their communities healthier and more active. The Creating Healthy Active Communities in Middlesex County Forum got underway this morning at the Middlesex Centre Wellness and Recreation Complex in Komoka. The day-long event brings together elected officials, and leaders in the areas of municipal planning, transportation, engineering, economic development, parks and recreation, workplaces, education and tourism to develop ideas and plans to promote healthy, active living.
A key part of the Forum is the international Toronto Charter for Physical Activity, which was launched almost four years ago at the International Congress on Physical Activity in Toronto. Developed by representatives from 55 nations, the Charter is a global call to action and an advocacy tool to create sustainable opportunities for physically active lifestyles for all. The Toronto Charter has already been endorsed by the municipalities of Middlesex Centre, Thames Centre, Lucan Biddulph, Southwest Middlesex and Strathroy-Caradoc.
“Building physical activity considerations into our planning and municipal decisions is becoming critical if we want to encourage our citizens to live healthier and more productive lives,” says Dr. Chris Mackie, Medical Officer of Health and CEO with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “There’s a clear relationship between how we design our communities and how easy it is for our residents to live life to the fullest. That’s what we’re exploring today.”
Forum participants will hear from experts in the fields of Urban Planning, Built Environment, Education, Engineering, and Parks and Recreation, in addition to a keynote address from Dr. Wayne Caldwell, Director and Professor at the University of Guelph’s School of Environmental Design and Rural Development. Dr. Caldwell will discuss the importance of investing in healthy communities, including rural, agricultural communities and why some communities enjoy economic success while others struggle.
The Creating Healthy Active Communities in Middlesex County Forum will also provide participants with an opportunity to meet colleagues from other municipalities and organizations, to discuss how to make their communities safer and more accessible, while making it easier to get around and be physically active.
Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit, 519-663-5317 ext.2469 or 519-617-0570 (cell.)
Spokesperson:
Mary Lou Albanese, Manager of the Healthy Communities and Injury Prevention Team, Middlesex-London Health Unit