We are on the road to a healthier Clark County. The second MAPP (Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnerships) meeting was held two weeks ago, and the attendance and excitement were high. Those in the room brought energy and gave insight to what a healthy community means to them.
The Health Department and the Clark Regional Foundation would like to express their gratitude to all who attended this meeting and to Cooperative Extension for allowing us to use their great facility. This project will most definitely be a success if we continue with the energy created by this group.
The people in attendance were asked to answer these questions:
— What are the important characteristics of a healthy community for all who live, work, and play here?
— How do you envision the Clark County health system in the next five to ten years?
— What are the key behaviors required of the local public health system partners, community, and others in the next five to 10 years?
The recurring themes were safe communities, access to healthcare services, nutritious food, physical activity, drug-free communities and education. To create a healthier Clark County, the common behaviors we will need are increased collaboration, active listening, communication and inclusion of all people.
At its core, MAPP is a community-driven project. The group expressed a desire to hear from all residents and partners in this community. This prompted Public Health Director Scott Lockard to give a mission to everyone. Come to the next MAPP meeting and bring a friend. Bring someone in the community you think should be at these meetings.
Most services in this community are tied to the local public health system. Health is, “A dynamic state of complete physical, mental, spiritual and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease,” according to the World Health Organization. We need law enforcement, youth, minority groups, nursing homes, local businesses, educators, faith communities and substance abuse represented. Anyone else you can think of? Bring them to the next meeting.
Our next MAPP meeting will be from 9-11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 23, at the Cooperative Extension Service building. This meeting is open to anyone in the community. Please bring your voice. We need to know what community members think about health
If you cannot attend, but would like to be kept informed about upcoming meetings, email or call Beth Willett at 744-4482, or at bethv.willett@ky.gov. If you would like to schedule Wilett or a MAPP representative to come speak at a meeting, a class or group about this project, please contact the health department. Students, youth groups or scout troops looking for a community project or to learn more about community planning and health can participate in many ways. We are on the road to a healthier community — don’t get left behind!
