October 21, 2024
Aetna, a CVS Health company, has a story 170 years in the making. An estimated 39 million people rely on Aetna to help them make decisions about their health care and their health care spending. Aligning with the company’s core values, Aetna announced a statewide sponsorship with National Fitness Campaign in December 2023.
Less than a year later, the Virginia wellness campaign saw its first healthy community officially cut the ribbon on their very own Fitness Court. That community was none other than the state’s capital city, Richmond.
With a population just north of 229,000, Richmond’s Parks and Recreation Department has 174 parks within city limits. The City has endeavored to, through Mayor Levar Stoney, focus on equity (Equity Agenda), and invest in neighborhoods that have not benefited from significant investments in the past. Largely, Southside Richmond has lacked the capital investment that north of the river has seen. The feasibility study conducted by NFC identified Broad Rock Sports Complex as a viable location for its strong community presence, various on-site amenities and highly active area.
The Richmond City Health District engaged community partners to assess the current state of Richmond residents’ health in pursuit of accomplishing their mission to “promote healthy living, protect the environment, prevent disease, and prepare the community for disasters.”
"The City of Richmond is proud to support initiatives that align with our commitment to improving community health and wellness. Public parks and recreation play a crucial role in addressing challenges like obesity, poor nutrition, and physical inactivity. By providing accessible facilities and safe, connected routes, we create spaces where people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds can engage in healthy activities. These efforts go beyond fitness; they are about fostering connections, reducing stress, and enhancing overall wellness. We believe that when communities have access to quality parks and recreational opportunities, they thrive, and we are dedicated to ensuring everyone can live a healthy, active life," said Chris Frelke, director of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony in September saw a nice representation of city leaders, first responders, Aetna leadership and even an appearance from the Richmond Flying Squirrels mascot, Nutzy. The Aetna Wellness on Wheels (AWoW) RV was also on-site, providing residents with a variety of free health screenings, education, activities and resources available for Richmond residents.
“What a fantastic space and incredible resource,” said First Lady Brandy Stoney during her remarks at the ribbon cutting ceremony. “I’m so excited that we are fortunate enough to have the Fitness Court here in Richmond.”
