Dr. Olson Huff Receives the 'Fostering New Horizons Award'

Dr. Olson Huff was awarded the 'Fostering New Horizons Award' at the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundations 20th Anniversary celebration for his work establishing and developing the Kids in Parks program. The award recognized "those who spur innovative ideas that advance the mission of the Foundation." We are proud to have Dr. Huff as Chair of our Advisory Committee and as a fierce advocate for getting kids outside and unplugged.

The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation outlined their reasons for awarding Dr. Olson Huff in a brief statement:

Ten years ago, Dr. Olson Huff envisioned a way to address growing concerns about the health of children and our natural environment. In his career as a pediatrician, he witness the harmful effects of children's increasingly sedentary lifestyles coupled with their growing disconnection from the outdoors. He outlined a plan to get children unplugged from electronic devices and outside to enjoy nature. Huff's innovative idea became the Kids in Parks (KIP) program, and garnered the support of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation, and the National Park Service. Today, KIP encourages families to explore TRACK Trails on the Parkway and across the country. In addition to boosting the health and well-being of thousands of children nationwide, the program is inspiring the next genereation of stewards, who will care for all public lands, including the Parkway.

Congratulations, Dr. Huff! Thanks for all you do!