Let’s Move Pittsburgh is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 2010 by Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens and the core funders of UPMC Health Plan and The Heinz Endowments. Its team of health and education specialists works closely with childcare centers, schools, and community centers to incorporate physical activity and nutrition education into their curriculums. They do this by promoting the 5-2-1-0 message:
- 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables
- 2 hours or less of recreational screen time
- 1 hour or more of physical activity
- 0 sugar-sweetened drinks and more water
Let’s Move Pittsburgh also hosts special events and educational activities at Phipps Conservatory, such as family fitness classes, kids’ yoga, nature walks, and interactive cooking demonstrations. The team attends dozens of community events annually to educate families about healthy behaviors.
Other signature programs of Let’s Move Pittsburgh include:
- Champion Schools Awards: Schools apply for a modest grant to create programs that improve nutritional offerings, increase opportunities for physical activity, and maintain a healthy and sustainable environment for students, faculty, and staff. K-12 schools in the Pittsburgh region are encouraged to apply. Applications are typically accepted in the spring.
- Green Light Foods: This app for mobile devices uses a green-yellow-red stoplight to help families identify the healthiest cereals, snacks, and beverages. Simply scan the barcode on a packaged food to learn how much sugar, salt, and fat it contains. This app is a great tool for families to use while grocery shopping.
- Symposium and Speakers Series: The Symposium gives parents, teachers, and other community members the opportunity to network, learn best practices, and develop new strategies for their organizations. The Speakers Series is a public event held several times throughout the year which features experts on a variety of topics relating to children’s health.
UPMC Health Plan is proud to be a founding partner and longtime supporter of Let’s Move Pittsburgh and its goal to make Pittsburgh a healthier city for all.