Seattle Chinatown International District Preservation And Development Authority (SCIDPDA)

Background

Parks and open space are vital to our physical and mental health. They strengthen our communities and create attractive cities and neighborhoods where people enjoy working and living. Strong evidence shows that when people have access to parks, they exercise more. Low-income neighborhoods populated by minorities and recent immigrants often lack open space and parks that are safe and accessible. In addition, many minorities and recent immigrants face cultural, financial and logistical barriers when trying to access parks and recreational activities.

CPPW-funded grant

SCIDPDA will work with Seattle Parks and Recreation staff,as well as community partners, to conduct a thorough and inclusive community engagement process to assess and reduce barriers to physical activity opportunities among Asian/Pacific Islander immigrants and refugees living or working in the International District community. SCIDPDA will also work to build public support for reducing barriers to physical activity through public education at community meetings, meetings with and letters to policy makers, trainings, and social media.

Hopes for the future

Asian/Pacific Islander immigrants and refugees will be more physically active because they have more access to quality parks and open space, including opportunities to participate in recreational activities in the International District community. Community members will also be empowered to identify and organize around a wide variety of future policy changes that impact the health and well-being of their community.