The City of Laurel has strutted to the podium, snagging the Silver Level for the "Move with the Mayor" 2024 Spring Mental Health and Physical Activity Challenge. With their sleeves rolled up, city officials have interwoven physical activity and social connectivity, aiming to uplift the community's collective spirit, according to the city's press release.
In a push against the modern epidemic of loneliness and isolation, Laurel's strategy took a multi-tiered approach, including vital partnerships and public policies aimed to bolster the connective fabric of the community. According to a statement from the city, they scored points across four domains: creating a culture of connection, social infrastructure strength, pro-connection policies, and solidifying partnerships, all adding up to their shining silver status.
Hucking some novel ideas into the local pond, the City broke new ground with a collaboration with UM Laurel Medical Center to widen mental health service access, much needed for a healthier urban environment. A "Bike to Work" Day and a tennis day for stress relief were among the city's highlights, throwing a spotlight on the 'move' in "Move with the Mayor." Mayor Keith R. Sydnor praised the initiative, saying, "The Move with the Mayor® initiative has been instrumental in bringing our community together and promoting healthier, more connected lives," as detailed by the City of Laurel press release.
For those looking to lace up their sneakers and join the movement, or simply to satisfy a curiosity about what a mayoral fitness challenge looks like, more information floats in the digital space at the National Forum's initiative page.
