
“School and community programs that
promote regular exercise among young
people could be among the most
effective strategies for reducing the
public health burden of chronic diseases
associated with sedentary lifestyles.”
~The Center for Disease Control and Prevention
What is PALS?
(Physical Activity for Local Students)
A
roadmap
 A process of communitybuilding
 A partnership to increase
physical activity opportunities
for our youth.
Why PALS?

We have a nation of children at risk for
obesity and related health issues.

Nine million children between the ages
of 6 and 19 are overweight—a number
that has doubled in the last 20 years.
Why PALS?


School-Community
partnerships stand
the best chance of
effecting change.
Collaboration
between the school
and community
creates a synergy,
accomplishing more
than each could on
its own.
What are the
Outcomes of PALS?


A community-level
coalition that works to
increase physical
activity opportunities
for youth
The implementation
of a plan that
increases access to
physical activity
opportunities
What are the Benefits
of PALS?
Physical and
Mental Health
 Developmental,
academic, and
social growth
 Development of
important
protective factors

What is the PALS Process?
“What Can I Do?”
Be a member of the
PALS Community
Coalition


Implement a
community-wide
project to increase
physical activity
opportunities for all
children.
Participate in
community change!
“Without community partners, schools
cannot play an active role in ensuring
students’ good health and fitness to
improve academic performance.”
~Turning Points 2000