Shared-use legislation passed last spring. This legislation allows schools to keep their recreational facilities open after normal hours so more people can exercise. But passing the law is only half the battle – now we want to explain to schools and communities how shared use agreements work.

As part of our efforts with the Oklahoma FIT Kids Coalition, the American Heart Association is hitting the road to educate the community on why shared use agreements matter.

“Our aim is to empower the people in Altus and the surrounding area to work with schools to keep their doors open to engage and connect deeper with parents, students and community groups and show the value they bring to communities beyond educating every child,” said Nellie Kelly, Director of Communications with the American Heart Association. Every Thursday in the month of September, there will be an event to inform residents of what shared use is and how you can implement a shared-use contract in your local school.

Visit their new web page at http://fitkidsok.org/our-projects/shared-use/. You can find helpful information on starting shared-use agreements in Oklahoma and see a video featuring Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin.