The Committee was established on November 24, 1959 by Governor Abraham Ribicoff. A sum of $500.00 was allocated from the Governor's Contingency Fund to establish the original committee and the first chairperson was Alice Donnelly. It has significantly gained in its scope of activities, as well as its marketing & communications capabilities. The Governor’s generous cooperation, along with the energized team of Committee volunteers and the financial support from corporations have been leveraged into major events backed by media coverage valued at over $1 Million - reaching tens of thousands of Connecticut residents.

Accomplishments:

• Connecticut Fitness Awards - Awards will be presented to programs and individuals in six different categories that exemplify outstanding fitness and health promotion.
• National Employee Health & Fitness Day - the Committee will partner with local business to promote Health & Fitness opportunities in the workplace on the third Wednesday in May.
• The Governor’s Seniors Challenge- Senior Centers and their members participate for prizes and fun
• The Youth Fitness Assessment Awards- Over 50,000 Certificates and School District trophies are awarded annually
• ConnecticutFitness.org.- Will serve as Connecticut’s Fitness “Portal” and public relations tool
• Project A.C.E.S.- Global activity for school age children, that we recognize and celebrate
• Corporate Partners- Major employers have given tens of thousands of dollars in prior years to assist with projects and initiatives.
• Recognition of Role Models- Special awards, proclamations and letters are continually generated
• The “Team”- Physicians, educators, corporate executives, athletes and concerned citizens working together towards enhancing the fitness level of the citizens of Connecticut.