Looking for a network of passionate professionals dedicated to advancing policy research to increase physical activity for all Americans? The Physical Activity Policy Research Network Plus (PAPRN+) welcomes all interested researchers and practitioners to join the network. The group’s mission is simple: conduct and communicate policy research so it can be used by stakeholders in multiple sectors to support more physical activity for all Americans. The vision is achievable - advance policy research to increase physical activity for all Americans.

Originally created by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in October 2004 to study the effectiveness of polices related to increasing physical activity in communities, the current iteration of PAPRN provides an increased focus on policies that influence walking; emphasis on translation, dissemination, and implementation; and increased outreach and partnerships with non-health sectors. The funded PAPRN+ Network consists of five collaborating member centers, one coordinating member center, CDC technical advisors, and an advisory committee.

To learn more about joining the network as an Affiliated Center, Affiliate Member, or Partner please email PAPRNplus@gmail.com for more information on the Network, including the first PAPRN+ Network call on March 26 from 3-4pm.

About the authors

Dr. Keshia Pollack is an Associate Professor at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health where she also serves as the Associate Director of the Johns Hopkins Center for Injury Research and Policy. Dr. Pollack is the Co-PI of the national CDC-supported Physical Activity Policy Research Network (PAPRN+).

Mr. Eric Schulman is a Communications Specialist at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Mr. Schulman directs the media relations, social media, and digital communication strategies for the Johns Hopkins Center for Injury Research and Policy and supports the communications efforts of PAPRN+.