Kickstart Kelowna
Kickstart was launched in 2005 as a five year initiative focused on increasing levels of physical activity in our community by 20% by 2010. This initiative was directly tied to the provincial challenge to increase the physical activity levels of BC residents by 20% by the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.
In January 2010 the Kickstart program ended, however, the focus on physical activity is still key to the City of Kelowna thru it's recreation and culture programs.
Walking programs were launched thru Kickstart and now the City has more walking and hiking programs 
than ever.
Kickstart Background
This Kickstart initiative was part of the Active Community Strategy that was developed in 2004 which included five strategic steps:
- Align internal resources to support the Active Community Strategy
- Build brand awareness and an active community network (KickStart)
- Create opportunities for individuals to become active
- Outreach into neighbourhoods, and address barriers to participation
- Sustain a culture of “Get Active/Stay Active”, and continue to promote and development programs that fosters an active way of life in Kelowna
Some of the great programs the City of Kelowna launched to encourage individuals to Get Active/Stay Active included:
- Community Passport to Activity (2006)
- Take the Stair Campaign (2006)
- Steps Out Program (Community 2006-2009; SD#23-2007)
- Active Workplace (2008)
- Community Walking Program (2008 & 2009)
- Family Active Nights (2008 & 2009)
- Park & Play Program (2008 & 2009)
While the Kickstart branding has been phased out, the focus and intent has been integrated within the Recreation & Cultural Services Department. One of the biggest successes from Kickstart was the implementation of a neighbourhood program delivery model that continues to build community with increased attention at the neighbourhood level - including: Park & Play Program, Family Active Nights and Neighbourhood Walking Programs. These programs continue to grow in Kelowna and have been fully integrated in the Recreation & Cultural Services Department.
Note: The new Neighbourhood Walking Program evolved out of the Steps Out pedometer tracking program which end December 31, 2009 with the “Walk to Whistler Challenge”.
Keep active with the City of Kelowna.
Return to Recreation Home.
