Watch the Video to Learn More
In partnership with municipalities, schools, and sponsors, over $100 million in public-private investment has been raised to combat obesity and the burdens of sedentary lifestyles. The Campaign provides expertise in building funding, masterplanning, and community building. NFC's mission is to build healthy communities with the goal of bringing a Fitness Court® within a 10-minute bike ride of every American.
The Growing Fitness Court® Network in Illinois
Making World Class Fitness Free for Illinoians
The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois and NFC Campaign in Illinois is delivering outdoor wellness infrastructure to help communities stay active across the state, in an effort to change health outcomes. Out of Illinois' 102 counties, there are open Fitness Courts® across 12.
LEADING PARTNERS IN ILLINOIS
State Affiliate Partner
In collaboration with NFC, the Illinois Park and Recreation Association has championed the available grant opportunities to their members across Illinois. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois and NFC are grateful for their support as we build a healthier Illinois.
Apply for Funding Now
Campaign Successes
Keeneyville, IL
Keeneyville District 20 made history in the fall of 2023 as the first school district partner to join the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois Campaign. Since the historic launch event, Keeneyville teachers and staff have been actively getting parents involved on the Fitness Court® after school. The district plans to work with Hanover Park District on future programming at this exciting new Fitness Court® for the whole community to utilize.
Ela Township, IL
With no outdoor fitness offerings within Ela Township’s 36 square miles, the need to provide a Fitness Court® was a key priority for Township leaders. The Knox Park location provides access to approximately 9,000 residents who are now within walking and biking distance of this Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois Fitness Court®.
Riverdale, IL
A small community with a dedicated focus on equity, the Riverdale Park District was instrumental in securing a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois Fitness Court at Franson Park. The site is centrally located to the Metra Trains, which provide transportation so residents can easily access the park and their new Fitness Court®. Nearly 10,000 residents will now be able to walk, bike or take the Metra Train to access free, world-class outdoor fitness.
Springfield, IL
The first official launch of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois campaign, the Fitness Court® at Comer Cox Park launched in July 2022. Comer Cox Park provides access to free fitness for approximately 6,000 residents, including 1,000 families living within walking distance.
Fox Valley, IL
The site selection for the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois Fitness Court® at Simmons Park is centrally located and visible from Indian Trail. Brett Meier, the general manager for Fox Fitness, along with other Fitness Court® Ambassadors plan to host “Pop Up in the Park” free fitness classes to provide a free group workout experience for all fitness levels.
Bring a Fitness Court® to Your Community
NFC is calling on Mayors, Civic and Education leaders, and Community Champions to join the urgent fight against sedentary lifestyles and preventable diseases. We can make a difference if we work together to increase outdoor movement and provide wellness activities that are equitable, accessible and free! Let’s build a free outdoor Fitness Court® within a 10-minute bike ride of every Illinoian, together.
Contact Us
