INCREASING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR MINORITY YOUTH THROUGH THE FIT2PLAY PROGRAM BASED IN COMMUNITY PARKS IN DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA

The social determinant of health of neighborhood and built environment is the influence of a community’s structure on the health of a community. Healthy People 2030 has recognized a need to increase the proportion of children who achieve the recommended amount of daily physical activity. We propose a strategy to implement the Fit2Play Program to increase physical activity for students in Durham County Parks. Fit2Play was first introduced in Miami-Dade County parks and has shown evidence that participating in regular physical activity can reduce blood pressure, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Participants also showed improved health and wellness knowledge. We aim to increase daily physical activity within youth of color in Durham County in order to prevent and decrease prevalence of chronic diseases through an evidence-based Durham County Parks after-school program.Master of Public Healt