The President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition has selected KABOOM! to receive a 2024 President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition Community Leadership Award, which celebrates leaders who are building more vibrant and thriving communities through sports, physical activity, fitness, and nutrition-related programs. The award is given annually to individuals or organizations who are uplifting their communities, contributing to their overall well-being, and supporting all community members’ potential to thrive.
KABOOM! was recognized for its collaborative efforts in addressing the urgent need for play and healing spaces in the Uvalde, Texas, community, following the tragic 2022 mass shooting at Robb Elementary School. Through innovative partnerships and deep community engagement, KABOOM! has built seven kid-designed playgrounds in Uvalde, helping nearly 5,000 children gain access to safe, healing, and joyful spaces while advancing their physical and mental well-being.
“We are proud to recognize KABOOM! for the work they have done to consistently promote opportunities for individuals to lead healthy lifestyles through their impactful playspace builds and community-focused efforts in Uvalde,” says Rayhaan Merani, Executive Director of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition. “Because of KABOOM!’s meaningful efforts and contributions, we are one step closer to improving the physical fitness, health, and nutrition of all Americans. Their work reaches communities in Uvalde and nationwide, and serves as a shining example to inspire others across the United States to create opportunities for healthy, active lifestyles.”
“Our work in Uvalde represents the very heart of KABOOM!’s mission: using play to bring joy, unity, and healing to communities that need it most,” says Lysa Ratliff, CEO of KABOOM!. “This award is a reflection of the power of partnership and community-led action. We are honored to share this recognition with the many Uvalde families, city leaders, foundations, and volunteers who joined hands to bring this vision to life.”
This year, the President’s Council presented the Community Leadership Award to 20 recipients across the country. These individuals and organizations have made a significant impact by advancing the Council’s mission and serving their communities through sports, physical activity, fitness, and nutrition-related programs. A full listing of the 2024 Community Leadership Awardees is available on health.gov.
