L.L.Bean and Philadelphia launch a partnership to encourage outdoor activity (Photos)

L.L. Bean is celebrating its 100th anniversary with a mission to inspire people to get outdoors. The initiative kicked off with a donation of seasonal outdoor gear to the Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Department. According to the L.L Bean web site, the company’s founder, Leon Leonwood Bean, was raised to believe that “nature is something to be revered; family ties are a priority and being neighborly is a matter of course.” The outdoor retailer’s values are visibly demonstrated in this partnership with Philadelphia, as they encourage the enjoyment of local parks and natural areas.

In late December, Mayor Nutter announced the collaboration and encouraged all Philadelphia residents to take advantage of the area’s great park system and outdoor spaces saying, “Our children’s health improves when they are able to exercise and enjoy the outdoors all year round.”

The outdoor gear donations include L.L. Bean’s signature Slope Sliders to boost participation in winter weather activities. These mini-sleds will be available at Cobbs Creek Recreation Center and Laura Simms Skate House, starting January 28. An informal borrowing system by the department will also offer headlamps, lanterns and flashlights for night hikes and geocaching, all provided by L.L. Bean. These are available at Pennypack Environmental Center and Wissahickon Environmental Center, also starting January 28.

L.L. Bean also offers many other opportunities for people to live a healthy and active lifestyle, no matter what the season. Check out their exciting winter offerings from the Outdoor Discovery Schools program and free in-store clinics: Classes such as Camping in the Cold, Snowshoeing Basics and Adventure Technology are available in or around L.L. Bean’s King of Prussia location.

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, Philadelphia Health Examiner

Amanda Oliva is a Registered Nurse with a passion for healthy living and discovering local community events and resources. A lover of words and all things outdoors, she is also a returned Peace Corps volunteer, wife and mother residing in Honey Brook, PA. You may contact Amanda with your comments...

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