H.A.R.D. Launches New Health Equity Initiative
As part of the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District’s (H.A.R.D.) efforts to advance Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI), the District launches its Health Equity Initiative this month which brings accessible health and wellness opportunities to all areas of the District.
Through a partnership with Tiburcio Vasquez Health Center and Alameda County Health Care Services Agency, H.A.R.D.’s new Health Equity Initiative includes six community building programs that incorporate fitness, water safety, life-long learning, and fun.
This summer marks the kick-off of the Recreation Rx program, HARD’s Youth Skillz and Hoops Youth League and World Cup League, and Sweat HARD. “Parks and recreation play an important role in our community—contributing to health and wellness, fostering human development, and making places safe. Our Health Equity Initiative demonstrates our commitment to prioritizing recreation as a basic human right. Through strategic partnerships, grants, and support from the HARD Foundation, we are able to provide free services to community members who could not otherwise participate, while still ensuring our programs are sustainable well into the future.” stated General Manager James Wheeler.
Recreation Rx is a collaboration with Tiburcio Vasquez Health Center prescribing physical activity to at- risk patients. As exercise reduces the risk of heart disease, lowers blood pressure and improves mental and physical well-being by prescribing physical activities it will assist in lowering these risks for members of the District’s communities. Patients will receive a “Rec Prescription” that is valid for a free fitness class through H.A.R.D. The CDC reports that the City of Hayward has a higher percentage of stroke, diabetes, obesity and asthma than other areas in Alameda County. The program aims to improve the health and wellbeing of community members by highlighting the vital role that recreation activities play in health and wellness.
Play HARD: Skillz and Hoops League and Play H.A.R.D: World Cup League are free basketball and soccer youth leagues taught by seasoned coaches. Teams will begin each weekly session with skills building practice and conclude with a league game. All participants will receive coaching, sports equipment and a uniform at no cost.
Sweat H.A.R.D. invites community members to get fit through free weekly classes hosted at the Matt Jimenez Community Center Gymnasium and free weekly outdoor fitness parties at parks throughout the District. The summer session of Sweat H.A.R.D. kicks off May 5 with a month-long Boot Camp course at MJCC and Zumba Dance Parties at Tennyson Park on Saturdays throughout the month of May.
Starting this Summer and continuing through out the year, as a part of the Health Equity Initiative, H.A.R.D. in partnership with the H.A.R.D. Foundation will offer over 2,000 free swim lessons, in an effort to address water safety among children and adults. According to the American Red Cross, 79% of children in households with income less than $50,000 have few-to-no swimming skills. This basic life skill disproportionately affects families of color--64% of African-American, 45% of Hispanic/Latino, and 40% of Caucasian children have few to no swimming skills. Other upcoming programs include Party H.A.R.D. in the Parks, bringing neighbors together in nature for food, community resources and loads of fun, plus parent education workshops, connecting families with essential educational resources. Workshops willinclude participation incentives, free childcare and dinner. So much great work happening, so close to home!
For more information or to register, please visit Heath Equity Initiative | Hayward Area Recreation and Park District, CA (haywardrec.org)
