DEARBORN – Governor Snyder presented the Governor’s Fitness Award for Active Communities to Dearborn on April 19. The award stems largely from the advocacy and activities of the Healthy Dearborn initiative, according to a press release.

“We are proud to be recognized by the state of Michigan for our commitment to broadening access to fitness options and wellness activities across our entire community, under the leadership of Healthy Dearborn,” Mayor O’Reilly said.

The mission of the group is to create a variety of opportunities for people in Dearborn to practice healthy lifestyles by enriching their minds, nurturing their bodies and revitalizing their spirit, according a the press release.

The Healthy Dearborn coalition is a partnership between Mayor Jack O’Reilly, Jr.; Beaumont Health; Dearborn Public Schools and many other partners, consisting of government representatives, residents, businesses, health care, social services and faith-based and other community organizations.

Some of the group’s events are “Walk & Rolls” which are weekly bike ride and walking events taking place May through October, the Zagster Bike Share rental system with 10 self-serve stations across Dearborn, “Cooking Matters” classes and more.

Flint and Grand Rapids were the other finalists for the award.