Creating active communities through community-led initiatives
Led by: Preventive Health SA
Partner: Local government, networks and community groups
Theme: Physical Activity
📌 Overview
The Community Activation Grants Program is designed to support South Australian communities and organizations to develop, promote, and implement physical activity initiatives within their local community, organizations, or workplaces. The program also aims to prioritize the co-benefits of being active, including social connection and improved mental health and well-being.
📈 Impacts
- Improved community access and inclusion by establishing sport equipment libraries, introducing socially inclusive fitness games, and delivering tailored courses for minority groups.
- Enhanced community awareness and engagement by installing wayfinding signage and distance markers along trails, making local areas and facilities more visible and accessible.
- Walking and exercise groups that promoted physical activity and strengthened social connections within their communities.
💡 Why It Works
- Community ownership: Local grants empowered communities to establish initiatives that work for them.
- Strengthened social connection: Initiatives fostered social interaction, reduced isolation, and built a sense of belonging within their communities.
- Sustainability: Investments created lasting impact through new infrastructure and increased local capacity.
Together, these approaches demonstrate how well-designed health promotion systems can enable communities to lead active, healthier lives in ways that are meaningful to them.
🔗 For More Information:
https://www.10000steps.org.au/
Related Success Cases
Explore more physical activity initiatives from INHPF members:
- Health Promotion Administration, Taiwan – Community Nutrition Promotion Centers
- Korea Health Promotion Institute – Senior Strength & Balance Program
- Victorian Health Promotion Foundation’s This Girl Can – Victoria
Image credit: Preventive Health SA
Source: Content adapted from Preventive Health SA
Explore the Network
Learn more about INHPF: https://inhpf.org/about/
