Newark Launches Let’s Move! Outside Initiative

The city of Newark has launched First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! Outside Initiative, to promote health through outdoor family activities.

David Jayo, senior advisor to the U.S. Secretary of the Interior says Newark was one of fifty selected priority cities to represent the Let’s Move! Outside Initiative.

“It really came down to three unique attributes that Newark has.  One…amazing parks, really throughout the entire city, with Military Park right in the middle.  The second is incredible non-profit partners that are dedicated towards conservation, and recreation in youth.  The third is really incredible local leadership with a mayor that really cares deeply about this issue.”

Mayor Ras Baraka says Newarkers can expect a series of park upgrades along with recreational activities to get kids outdoors.

Newark YMCA president Michael Bright says the city can be a model for other’s who may launch Let’s Move! Outside in the future.

“We’re going to go out and work with the other partners and make sure that we get a lot of input from people who are concerned about the parks and want to use them in that manner.”