April 29, 2015

Wyden, Portman, Hirono, Booker and Heinrich Announce Kids to Parks Day

Resolution Kicks Off Summer Events to Encourage Children to Live Active Lifestyles

Washington, DC  -- U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., Rob Portman, R-Ohio, Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Cory Booker, D-N.J. and Martin Heinrich, D-N.M. are joining together to promote active lifestyles for America’s children by introducing a resolution to mark Kids to Parks Day.

Started in 2011 with the National Park Trust, the fifth annual Kids to Parks Day kicks off a summer-long series of events at local, state and national parks.

"Oregonians have a love of the outdoors imprinted in our DNA,Wyden said. “Regardless of age, Oregonians have so many parks to choose from that Kids to Parks Day will provide a fantastic opportunity for young and old alike to get outside.”

"America's national parks are a cherished resource, and I was fortunate to visit Cleveland’s Cuyahoga Valley National Park last year to learn more about the many park programs geared specifically towards kids,” Portman stated.  “I am proud to support the Kids to Parks Day Resolution because it’s important that we encourage our kids to experience and enjoy the great outdoors.”

“Parks provide a critically important venue for folks to explore the beautiful and unique ecosystems in Hawaii,” Hirono said. "What better way to ensure our keiki are healthy and happy than to get them out in nature and into our parks?  Between the 50 state parks and 7 National Parks in Hawaii, there is something for everyone to enjoy.”

“All across the country, our parks are a national treasure and an incredible resource that all Americans should have the opportunity to enjoy,” Booker said. “As Kids to Parks Day kicks off another summer of activity, education, relaxation, and exploration, we’re proud to encourage the active celebration of America’s great outdoors.”

“Our public lands are uniquely American and offer endless opportunities for kids to explore, learn, and play,” Heinrich said. “Whether it’s walking to the local park down the street or hiking and camping in a national park, getting outside with our kids can inspire a lifelong connection to conservation, while reaping all of the health benefits that go along with an active lifestyle."

The fifth annual Kids to Parks Day will be Saturday, May 16, 2015. To find a list of events near you, go here.