Overview
Live Lively LaSalle! was a uniquely inclusive and equitable collaboration of LaSalle Parish government, recreation districts, medical centers, and the Jena Band of Choctaw. It was aimed at increasing opportunities for routine physical activity and healthier eating within all communities and across all age groups of this rural parish (population <15,000). The project improved and promoted fitness and recreational opportunities in each parish town; it facilitated and promoted new farmers markets and availability of healthier foods. Live Lively LaSalle! brought parish residents together in the spirit of cooperation, empowerment, and healthy lifestyles.
Highlights
- 8 parks +1 tribal property throughout the parish:
- 5 miles of walking/biking trails adjacent to schools and neighborhoods
- State-of-the-art splash park
- Frisbee-golf course; basketball court; skate path
- Amenities (rest rooms, water fountains, picnic tables, meeting rooms); shade coverings; landscaping; lighting; security cameras; public address systems
- Constructed 2 market pavilions
- Developed 2 seasonal markets
- Community wellness education through clubs and organizations
- Routine healthy lifestyle messaging in local media
- Numerous health/fitness-based activities
- Increased community leadership opportunities
- Technical Assistants to Local Restaurants
- Initiation and marketing of healthier menu items
Project Partners
- Centennial Cultural Center
- LaSalle Economic Dev. Dist. Town of Jena
- Town of Olla
- Town of Tullos
- Town of Urania
- Jena Band of Choctaw
- Recreation District #10
- Recreation District #22
- Hardtner Medical Center
- LaSalle Parish Police Jury
- LSU AgCenter
- LaSalle Parish 4-H
- Boy Scouts
- YMCA
- The Jena Times
- Sheriff’s Department
- Kiwanis Club of Jena