Celebrating 95 Years, Miami-Dade Parks – Miami’s Community Newspapers – August 5, 2024 

Happy 90th, Miami-Dade Parks –Miami’s Community Newspapers – July 31, 2019

Fit2Lead: Innovative Program Builds Future Leaders

Fit2Lead is an award-winning, evidence-based summer and after-school program for 15 to 19-year-olds. Launched in 2016 by Miami-Dade Parks and partners like the Miami-Dade County Juvenile Services Department, Miami-Dade Public Schools, and the Miami-Dade Police Department, this paid internship program reduced crime by 30% in implementation areas. It is now integral to Mayor Daniella Levine Cava’s and the Board of County Commissioners’ Peace and Prosperity Plan. In 2024, Fit2Lead provided employment and mentorship to 700 kids through 13 county departments and 35 community partners.

Community violence is a major public health priority, and Fit2Lead focuses on prevention and intervention at the community level. Parks Recreation Programs Division Chief Eric Hansen highlights the program’s role in offering opportunities to mitigate risks, build resilience, reduce violence and victimization, and improve healthy academic, social, and health trajectories for youth in vulnerable communities.

Participants work at paid internships and engage in life management skills, such as goal setting, budget planning, communication, problem-solving, emotional regulation, and healthy relationship building. This program builds a foundation for adulthood, providing perspective on future career paths

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