Health Policy

Enjoying the wonders of the outdoors is a small act that has big health benefits.

The Healthy Parks Healthy People: Bay Area collaborative (HPHP: Bay Area) was created in 2011 with the goal of improving the well-being of Bay Area residents through the regular use of parks and public lands. This collaborative brought together more than 50 park, health, and community organizations dedicated to building innovative, cross-sector partnerships.

Food for the Parks: Case Studies of Sustainable Food in America’s Most Treasured Places showcases parks and concessionaires that have established innovative practices to bring healthy and sustainable food programs to their park visitors.

Healthy Parks Healthy People, a Guide for Health Care Providers offers a starting point for health professionals interested in integrating nature into their practice. 

Healthy Parks Healthy People: Bay Area, A Roadmap and Case Study for Regional Collaboration uses the HPHP: Bay Area Collaborative to share lessons with other collaborations looking to link parks and health across the country. 

Creating and Strengthening Park Prescription Programs is a three-part webinar series that explores key elements for successful Park Prescription programs.

The Power of Park Prescriptions Building on a National Movement is a stock presentation that provides a history and overview of the National ParkRx Initiative.

Park Prescription Program Toolkit is an interactive, step-by-step guide for agencies interested in starting their own Park Prescription program.

From the start, the Institute has promoted the health benefits of parks and nature, energizing a movement that continues to gain momentum as more evidence shows nature can improve health and well-being.