For 26 years, the Prevention Research Center of Michigan has researched ways to create safer, more inviting and accessible neighborhood spaces and improve physical and mental health.
Now, with $5 million in renewed funding from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the center will continue its community-based participatory research projects through at least 2029.
The focus of the next five years will be building on prior work in Flint, including evaluating the effectiveness of vacant land reuse programs meant to create equitable and accessible spaces for physical activity. The center’s goal is to reduce crime, boost social capital, enhance well-being and increase physical activity opportunities.
Researchers from the center will also partner with local health departments to specifically address differences in physical activity participation among African American and Latino adults.
The project is being co-led by IFIP faculty member Dr. Roshanak Mehdipanah and Institute co-director Dr. Marc Zimmerman.
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