DURHAM, N.C. – Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC) and the Museum of Life and Science have teamed up to launch “Walk of the Week,” a walking program that leads visitors and families on educational scavenger hunts through the museum’s 84 acres of scenic woodlands.
The “Walk of the Week” program builds on the museum’s existing interactive, hands-on experience by providing self-guided walking tours with a new nature theme each week. Participants are provided a hint or clue at the start of the walk, along with a map leading them to an exciting and educational discovery in the great outdoors.
“I am pleased to have BCBSNC as a supporter of the museum’s educational mission and the upcoming expansion of our outdoor environment. Healthy development includes keeping a sense of wonder alive, and that’s what the museum offers to our patrons. I’m proud to have BCBSNC join us in inviting people to explore nature, science and the museum,” said Barry Van Deman, president and CEO, Museum of Life and Science.
BCBSNC and the Museum of Life and Science are teaming up through 2016 to provide more opportunities for North Carolina families to stay active and learn together. As part of the three-year partnership, BCBSNC has made a $150,000 commitment to bring the museum one step closer to adding 1.8 miles of outdoor trails to its campus. This infrastructure will help the museum’s 440,000 annual visitors access four more acres of new outdoor exhibits planned to open by 2016.
“Regular physical activity is essential to leading a healthy life, which in turn helps to control the cost of health care. But families shouldn’t have to choose between family time and a workout. In the right setting, you can accomplish these two things together,” said Brad Wilson, BCBSNC president and CEO. “Providing opportunities for families to become more active while spending time together at one of North Carolina’s most celebrated museums is a natural fit.”
Why a walk every week?
- In North Carolina, one out of every three children is obese.[1] North Carolina has the 17th highest adult obesity rate in the nation.[2]
- National guidelines recommend that children spend at least seven hours each week, or 60 minutes each day, doing moderate physical activity.[3] A brisk walk can burn off up to 100 calories per mile or 300 calories per hour.[4]
- Every $1 spent on the construction of biking trails and walking paths can save an estimated $3 in medical expenses.[5]
The “Walk of the Week” is designed to encourage health and fitness for North Carolina children and families in a fun, educational environment. BCBSNC’s support for the program is part of Get Outside North Carolina! (GO NC!), a broader effort by the company to encourage North Carolinians to embrace active lifestyles.
Triangle residents are encouraged to follow BCBSNC and the Museum of Life and Science on Facebook and Twitter using #walkoftheweek and #lifeandscience hashtags to discover a new “Walk of the Week” each week through 2016.
About BCBSNC:
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina is a leader in delivering innovative health care products, services and information to more than 3.84 million members, including approximately 1 million served on behalf of other Blue Plans. Since 1933, the company has served its customers by offering health insurance at a competitive price and has served the people of North Carolina through support of community organizations, programs and events that promote good health. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina was recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere Institute in 2012, 2013 and 2014. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Visit BCBSNC online at bcbsnc.com. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
About the Museum of Life and Science:
The Museum of Life and Science is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to create a place of lifelong learning where people, from young children to senior citizens, embrace science as a way of knowing about themselves, their community, and their world. Located just blocks from downtown Durham, the Museum of Life and Science is one of the North Carolina’s top family destinations as voted by the readers of Carolina Parent, Durham Magazine and The Independent Weekly. Situated on 84-acres, the museum’s interactive science park includes a two-story science center, one of the largest butterfly conservatories on the East Coast and beautifully landscaped outdoor exhibits which are safe havens for rescued black bears, lemurs, and endangered red wolves. Learn more at lifeandscience.org
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[1] Eat Smart Move More Quick Facts, May 2013.
[2] Trust for America’s Health. August 2013.
[3] American Heart Association, 2013.
[4] Lehigh Valley Health Network, 2014.
[5] Trust for America’s Health, 2012.