The Spring 2019 edition of The Canopy newsletter is being delivered the week of April 15, 2019 to households and businesses in our service area. Everyone is welcome to download and read the PDF version.

 

 

 

What makes a community healthy?
Is it when there are low rates of sickness and disease? Or active, fit residents? These areas may be what you imagine first when you think of health, and they are very important, but is that it?

We at the Verdant Health Commission also envision social connectedness and mental health as part of the picture of a healthy community. New York University Professor of Sociology Eric Klinenberg spoke in February about this issue to more than 200 community providers who serve South Snohomish County at the Verdant Healthier Community Conference. He reminded us that the strength of a community can depend on how connected we are with one another. He stressed that the places where we gather can build a sense of belonging, which can positively affect health.

As Superintendent Robin Fenn shares in her message on page 3 of The Canopy newsletter, loneliness affects all portions of our population. Engaging with those around you is one way to build a stronger community, and we strive to provide those opportunities at the Verdant Community Wellness Center and through many of our grant programs.

Verdant hosts gatherings of parents with young children weekly at Play & Learn while on a monthly basis we host veterans at Hero’s Cafe, family caregiver meetings, older Korean-speaking adults learning about health topics, and more. Verdant is a designated “Safe Place” for teens in crisis and a location for Volunteers of America North Sound 2-1-1 for people with basic needs. Our multi-week programs and one-time classes also provide a chance to be with others who share a common interest.

Take a look through this edition of The Canopy to gain more ideas about programs to build community strength and health. Please join us if you can!