Parker, Colorado, April 26, 2017 — Innovation Pavilion (IP) has added an innovative spin-off company to its Denver South-based business ecosystem. Led by entrepreneurs Steve Lopez and Eesha Sheikh, “Playpal” creates technological tools via smartphones and tablets that empowers adolescents to take control of their own health while doing what they already love, playing video games. Their ultimate mission is prevention and reversal of childhood obesity by utilizing technology to effect a behavioral change in an adolescent’s health. Recently, Playpal finished the digital gamification of O’Brien Park, which is part of the Town of Parker’s visionary plan to set the foundation for a successful and vibrant downtown. Parker residents benefit from an improved park experience thanks to one-of-a-kind connected technology. After a successful trial phase, Playpal and the Town of Parker are hosting a public launch of the project on May 6, 2017 at 1 p.m. in O’Brien Park.
In 2014, IP and Johns Hopkins University studied the effects of technology on positive behavioral change in children and its potential for preventing and reversing childhood obesity. The study concluded technology has a positive effect on children’s behavior in that it can actually aid children in making better choices with regard to their nutrition and physical activity instead of being detrimental to their health.
“We have been working on this project for about three years now and are excited to see it come to fruition,” observed IP CEO Vic Ahmed. “Steve and Eesha are a remarkable team. I am thrilled with what they have been able to produce so far and the traction they have generated. The whole project speaks to IP’s commitment to its communities and how hard we work to create technological transformation.”
Over the last year, Playpal has produced a gaming platform that targets both energy expenditure and intake. Further, it incentivizes children with real-life rewards to help keep them motivated to accomplish their goals while empowering them to take charge of their lifelong health. So far, Playpal has managed to secure support from leading industry and nonprofit players like Aetna and United Way, who stand behind this mission. Its first projects were implemented in the Town of Parker Colorado and Olathe Kansas. Both cities utilized Playpal
“Having been a victim of obesity and bullying throughout my pre-teen years, I am now empowered to raise awareness on childhood obesity,” remarked Playpal CEO Eesha Sheikh. “I am so excited to finally see my dream turn into reality. This is definitely the start of a revolution; an adolescent health revolution.”
Building upon its successes, Playpal plans to launch a crowdfunding campaign in mid-July with an impressive lineup of fitness and healthcare partners. Just a month since its announcement, PlayPal is well on its way to transforming the childhood health community in Colorado and beyond.
