Independence Hospital Encourages Lifelong Wellness among Youth

Buchanan County Health Center
Independence, IA

The Wellness Center team at Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) in Independence has made youth engagement in wellness and healthy living a high priority. SPARK! Igniting Health Kids began in 2009 with funding from a Wellmark Small Communities grant. It was piloted in the Independence Community School District and has now expanded into the East Buchanan and Jesup school districts, reaching more than 250 children a year.

The wellness team visits classrooms weekly to introduce a variety of fruits and vegetables to students and an exercise move with to encourage children to adopt healthy and active lifestyles.  “We feel it is very important to educate young children on the importance of healthy eating and physical activity in hopes that these students will empower their families to also embrace healthy behaviors,” commented Community Health & Wellness Manager Kristi Moeller.

In addition to SPARK!, the BCHC Wellness Center recently launched a one-of-a-kind “Kid Gym” featuring child-inspired fitness equipment allowing children to play while their family member utilizes the wellness facility.

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