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Community Success Stories

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Read below to find out how organizations from around the state have used the resources provided by INShape Indiana to make healthy lifestyle changes throughout their communities.

Area IV Lunch Bunch Success Story

Area IV Lunch Bunch Success Story

Beginning the first week of January, Area IV Agency on Aging and Community Action Programs, in Lafayette, decided to start a “Lunch Bunch” in their office. Each Saturday Kim, their beloved food preparer, goes to her local county market and stocks up on fresh fruits and vegetables, string cheese, Ranch dip, etc. She takes the food home, chops it all up to bring in on Monday morning. All of the items are marked “Lunch Bunch”. Anyone who is participating can come in and “graze” throughout the day on all the fresh, healthy foods that are available. Each week Kim makes a delicious pasta salad using the vegetables left over from the week before.

The Area IV Agency “Lunch Bunch” began with 6 members. Now 4 months later, they consistently have 16 people who participate each week.

The “Lunch Bunch” has experienced several fantastic successes since beginning the program. One employee has lost 15 pounds, as well as several have lost between 5-15 pounds. One member was able to get into a 2-piece swim suit for Spring Break. Their group daily caloric intake has been noticeably cut. Several of the members have committed to drinking no carbonated drinks and increasing their water intake to at least 8 glasses each day. Lastly, most of them now eat a healthy breakfast including fruits and vegetables rather than skipping breakfast all together.

One of the greatest benefits of doing this is the camaraderie that they have gained! Before this all began, most of them would stick to their own small groups. Despite years of working together, in some cases, many of them really didn’t know their co-workers well. Now, they make a habit of meeting up each day at noon in the break room. They even had to reorganize the break room to accommodate the growing crowd! We share recipes and exercising tips. We support and encourage each other. We laugh and joke. Sometimes we even complain and cry. Most of all – they keep each other accountable. No one left behind – if they can help it! They believe this is what has kept them going so strong, for so long; precisely why their mental health is as greatly improved as their physical health.

Scott County YMCA

Living in Scott County, Kentuckiana, places the members of the community in the middle of a big, obesity mess. Fast food chains are prevalent and statistics say that the youth are more sedentary than ever. There is a high demand for children to learn about fitness and nutrition at a young age.

At the Scott County Family YMCA, they too see the rising obesity trend and see a need to help fight it. Throughout fall and early winter, they ran a Fall into Fitness program at two local elementary schools. Their goals for the program were to actively involve students in exercises at school and challenge them to learn more about nutrition, fitness, and overall wellness outside of school by completing activities and earning points for prizes. With an interest in fitness, they wanted to increase the kid's knowledge and capabilities in health.

Each fitness session would include an introduction, a warm up, several exercises, games, and a discussion about health and fitness.

They worked with 160 third, fourth, and fifth graders. Each week, the students participating in the Fall into Fitness program had actual time (30-40 minutes) set aside for physical exercise and games at the elementary schools, a packet of nutritional information, nutrition games, exercise puzzles, and a list of activities to complete for points. The students were awarded points for completing certain activities. The students were most excited to be receiving the Governor's Fitness Awards which were signed by Governor Mitch Daniels and their favorite quarterback, Peyton Manning.

Parents would often approach the YMCA to discuss their children's personal success stories. Many students lost weight or saw their clothes fitting better. One parent said, My daughter has lost weight, and at first it was all about earning points for prizes, but when she noticed her clothes fitting looser, she realized how important it was to exercise for her health!

In conclusion, the Scott County Family YMCA was very happy to have seen so much success in the program, and more importantly, so many lives of children affected! They believe that children are still receptive to their parents and teachers' thoughts and conversations about fitness and nutrition at a young age. This program was a great fit for these elementary school students. The YMCA hopes to have made a difference in the choices these children make about their personal health and wellness in the future. It is up to influential adults to make a difference in the obesity trends of youth today by challenging children to make healthy choices!

Fueling Your Family: Food, Fun & Fitness Fair

(Children learn about healthy fast food options)

Fort Wayne has once again continued its push to become a leader in promoting healthier communities.   America on the Move in Fort Wayne, with it’s over thirty Collaborating Companies, led the charge to educate and motivate children and families to choose healthy eating and active living at the Fueling Your Family:  Food, Fun & Fitness Fair.

In late August, children, their parents and grandparents were engaged in a variety of activities geared towards hands-on learning and fun!  Master gardeners assisted children in planting salad greens for take-home harvesting.  The Portion Teller focused on portion control, and other exhibits offered brain foods, healthy budget- friendly snacks, fruit and veggie taste testing, sports nutrition and other smart eating strategies. In addition, parents were challenged to be good role models and to learn quick, easy ways to incorporate meal planning, label reading, and healthy school lunch choices to help improve their children’s performance.   Pineapple bowling and pedometer walking added to the fitness fun offerings!

A Farmer’s Market featured fresh fruits and vegetables and a Fast Food in the Fast Lane exhibit offered both healthy and unhealthy drive-thru choices with great combo meal titles such as the Sam Hornish Jr. special.  Children choosing less healthy offerings at the Fast Food Lane were asked to drive around again and make a healthier choice from the menu board.  When healthy choices had been made, children were rewarded with a Frisbee and a fast food guide.

Another crowd pleaser was the “Design your own Place Mat” area where children could create their unique place mats to take home and reinforce the smart eating message of the fair. The Cooking Demos proved to be just as popular and chefs from local AOM restaurants created Fun with Ramen Noodles, Bruschetta Chicken Pomodoro, and Cookie Pizza Dessert.  Taste testing and recipes were great additions to the healthy cooking at home messaging.

Fueling Your Family was a wonderful collaborative community endeavor designed to impact the health of children and their parents.  The goal of the fair was to continue to reinforce the healthy eating, active moving theme of America on the Move. It also provided parents with tangible ways to get both their children and themselves on the path to living healthy lifestyles. Let’s all congratulate Fort Wayne on making a positive impact on the health of their community!

Templeton School

In an effort to combat the rising pediatric obesity rates and the prominence of Insulin Resistant and Type II Diabetes in children, and to help area schools meet Federal mandates, the Monroe County YMCA formed the Recharge/Re-Energize program. In collaboration with Templeton Elementary School and other MCCSC elementary schools, YMCA staff and volunteers visit the classroom twice a week, offering various planned movement activities and directed health information. Students walk during these visits and keep journals tracking their exercise and eating habits.

The results have been impressive! Twenty out of 26 of the children met the physical standards of the Presidential Fitness Challenge. All of the students have been able to participate in fun fitness activities that are improving social and academic skills, overall self-esteem, and good nutritional habits. These children feel good about themselves and their performances, and not just through the mindless praise given so routinely. These children are seeing their hard work pay off for themselves!

Here is what we do to help the children meet the pledge that they created:

  • Movement-based health education classes twice each week with YMCA staff and twice each week with Templeton teachers. Activities are designed to include every child, measured to the physical ability of each.
  • Children keep a journal in which they record their meals, snacks, daily exercise, and activities.
  • Directed and specific nutritional information and activity instruction is provided for parents, caregivers and families to encourage informed participation by the child’s entire support structure.
  • Collected donated athletic shoes for those children unable to participate or enjoy physical education and movement activities due to lack of proper footwear.
  • Provide observational assessments by the YMCA staff and schoolteachers to chronicle changes in children’s eating and exercise regimen measured with any corresponding change in social and academic skills.

Congratulations to Templeton Elementary School and the Monroe County YMCA for making the commitment to live a healthier lifestyle!

Due to Marlene Vass and the Monroe County YMCA, these elementary students are learning life-long habits for living healthy. Thanks to all for your efforts!

Coast to Coast Charity Bike Ride

In an effort to raise money for three local charities and get in better physical shape, a small group of guys from South Bend, Indiana challenged themselves to ride their bicycles from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean.  Gary Decker, Steve Hosinski, Albert Salazar, and Bob Fox knew it would require extensive physical training, a strict diet, and dedicated fund raising to complete this arduous journey.  Although many challenges would lie ahead, they knew that getting in shape and helping others would be worth the sacrifice.

In the spring of 2006, they began a year long training regime that included riding stationary and recumbent bikes at home, working out at the gym, riding with a weekly bike group, and taking their “show on the road” with 40 mile rides whenever the Indiana weather would allow it.  Although improving their health and training for the rigors of the cross-country journey were important, the team never lost sight of their ultimate goal, to raise money and awareness for charity. These ambitious Hoosiers were getting prepared for the journey of a lifetime!

When June of 2007 arrived, they headed west with the support of businesses, family and friends to embark on the “Coast to Coast Charity Bike Ride.”  The team dipped their tires in the Pacific Ocean at Oceanside, California on June 3rd and then started pedaling. They continued pedaling east for 24 days, and covered approximately 3,200 miles.  On June 26th, they concluded their tremendous journey by touring Washington, D.C. and dipping their tires in the Atlantic Ocean as their grand finale. 

Although they sacrificed a lot in their lives to make this happen, they all agreed it was a worthwhile experience.  Their homecoming was sweet, as family, friends and co-workers congratulated them on their accomplishment.  They helped local charities in need, and came home in better physical condition than when they left.  Each of them lost 20 pounds from their 24 days of eating smart and exercising regularly!

City of Yorktown, IN

On June 1, 2007, the City of Yorktown, Indiana, held a ribbon cutting ceremony for its new wellness trail.  The “LifeTrail” wellness system incorporates 10 stops along a walking trail that are designed to improve strength and flexibility.  This is the second system to be placed in Delaware County.

Judy Ritter, the vice president of planning and development for LifeStream Services, said that she is looking forward to the improved health of residents in the area, particularly within the senior demographic.

LifeTrail is designed to seamlessly enhance individuals’ daily walking routine.  The equipment at the 10 stations covers every major muscle group in the body.  People of all ages can befit from it use.

Northwest Indiana Community Action Corporation

The Northwest Indiana Community Action Corporation (NWICA) is proud to report on the successful outcomes in their region, due to participation in INShape Indiana’s 10 in 10 Challenge sponsored by the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports.

The NWICA is one of the only organizations in the area to have adapted the INShape Indiana program to be specifically used by seniors.  As an Area Agency on Aging, Northwest Indiana Community Action wanted to create access to INShape Indiana for seniors and citizens who have no Internet skills or access.  Thankfully, with permission from the Governor’s Council, the NWICA was able to tailor the program to the needs of seniors. The NWICA felt that it would be more beneficial to focus on wellness rather than weight loss. 

NWICA’s Preventative Health and Outreach responded by researching and sharing items specific to senior health.  Handouts were created and distributed to several senior centers, energy assistance sites, township offices, and community centers. Materials and resources were e-mailed to community service partners in Jasper, Lake, Newton, Porter, Pulaski, and Starke counties.  Partners used these and other aids to educate seniors and other individuals.

As a result of the 10 in 10Challenge, East Chicago participants enjoyed the following programs: 

  • Senior lunch groups enjoyed many presentations and two special events where they discussed INShape Indiana lessons and how they were applying them daily. They reported successfully exercising at home using routines pictured in Nutrition Awareness Day handouts. 
  • Seniors at Bessie Owens Center began walking in the gym daily.  The weekly tips helped several folk lower their cholesterol and reduced their Arthritis symptoms. 
  • At Hunter Hi-Rise some seniors began walking before lunch, and discussed fitness and nutrition handouts over lunch. 
  • Roxanna seniors reported decreasing their sugar intake, and eating smaller portions on smaller plates.
  • Community Services of Starke County helped recruit many of the (more than 60) seniors participating.  10 Weeks to Better Health, an initiative by Jasper County Human Services, further adapted the program. They shared the handout along with their own presentations and weekly aids.  
  • At NWICA, some staff members have a monthly birthday potluck. Now dishes include healthier offerings and participants exchange those recipes.           

Many thanks to the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports and their community partners.  Most of all, NWICA congratulates the participants who are all winners in the quest for better health. Let’s all continue the quest to stay INShape Indiana!

Logansport State Hospital

Since its founding 15 months ago, the Logansport State Hospital Wellness Committee has sponsored three weight loss challenges.  The challenges were titled “LSH – Living Sensible & Healthy” to go along with the Logansport State Hospital abbreviation LSH.  The cost to join a challenge was $15.  The money was used to purchase of T-shirts and to provide prize money for winning participants.  Teams were to be formed, consisting of 2 – 6 people. 

The concept of the buddy system was used, as it was believed that when you invest in somebody else’s success, your own is guaranteed.  The team members were to help keep each other accountable, share information, and support one another.  The winners were based on pounds lost by an individual male and female, and percentage lost by a team.  The prizes varied according to how many people paid to participate and how many members were on the team that won.  The committee is also going to be incorporating some other “wellness” type events into the scheduling such as a Wellness Fair, Family Fun Day, Fall Nature Walk, etc.

The 3rd LSH Challenge was held from January 22 through the final weigh in, held on March 30 & April 2.  The challenge was also held in conjunction with the 10 in 10 Challenge through INShape Indiana.  Of the 72 people who originally entered the 3rd Challenge, 61 completed the challenge at the final weigh in.  A total of 361.1 pounds were lost.  Statistics showed that women lost more weight than men, and many of those women lost 20+ pounds.  Winners were notified and results were posted on our LSH Intranet "Forum" for staff to see. 

Sarah Rutschmann has participated in all three challenges and has continued to lose weight each time.  With each challenge that takes place, she said it seems harder to stay focused and motivated.  However, she has felt all along that finding the right support system and setting attainable goals are the key to success.  People with goals succeed, and those without seem to fail.  Sarah was fortunate during this third challenge to be working with an amazing team.  Her team consisted of four women: Sarah Rutschmann, Karen Rigle, Heather Fryman and Jamie Dubois.  Each was from different backgrounds and disciplines within the hospital, yet sharing the same goals – weight loss, healthy eating, incorporation of an exercise program, and providing support!  In the beginning, they e-mailed each other their goals and made a vow to keep each other accountable and motivated! 

Their group shared recipe ideas, magazine articles, walked on breaks and lunch hours, emailed often, and kept in touch often.  They joined a Web site that was promoted to LSH staff to speak with others going through the same issues, and read and posted messages on their LSH Forum page on the Intranet.  The team also participated in the 10 in 10 Challenge!  The woman all did very well in the challenge because of the dedication, support, and motivation provided by such a great team effort.  They not only obtained a lifestyle change from this event, but also gained a truly wonderful friendship.  It just goes to show that whatever the mind can conceive and believe it can achieve!!!

Indiana State Prison Staff and Offenders Getting INShape

The Indiana State Prison (ISP) staff is taking advantage of INShape Indiana. Staff worked hard and donated their time to renovate an older building into a modern recreational gym and fitness area. Recently, the fitness area was completed with the addition of new and donated exercise equipment.


Lt. Daryl Walls Lifting weights in ISP Fitness Room

Getting in shape and staying healthy has become contagious at the 146-year old maximum security prison. ISP staff created team competitions to see which group could lose the most weight. Each quarter, facility events are held, such as fun runs and walks, to encourage staff to lose weight and get into shape. Recently, staff raised over $1,000 for Riley Children’s Foundation by sponsoring each other as they walked an all-day event at a local park. One correctional officer walked 35 miles in a ten-hour period.

 


Officer Charles Ritchey
after losing 100 pounds

This new attitude toward fitness has helped some staff who have more physically demanding jobs. This summer, correctional officers patrolled the perimeter on bikes instead of driving vehicles. The decision to utilize bicycles instead of cars was made to save money due to rising gas costs. Shortly after it began, the perimeter post was one of the most popular jobs for officers to work at the prison.

“Being healthy helps our staff feel good and allows them to perform their duties more effectively,” said Superintendent Ed Buss.

ISP Correctional Officer, Charles Ritchie, is an excellent example of a person changing his lifestyle for the better. Officer Ritchie made a New Year’s resolution to lose weight and better his health. Ten months later and 100 pounds lighter, Ritchie achieved his goal.

“I made sure that the calories going in were less than the energy I expended,” said Charles Ritchie.

Getting in shape isn’t just reserved for ISP staff. The offender population has been encouraged to do the same. The offenders were recently allowed to order running shoes, pedometers, and other health-related items. They also are in the process of arranging events similar to the staff to promote a healthy lifestyle. A healthy offender means fewer trips to the hospital inside and outside the facility.

“Another goal is that the offenders incarcerated here will continue this healthy lifestyle as they prepare for re-entry back to Indiana communities,” said Buss.

Wind Up…. Wind Down

Mary Keltner shows how doing the little things each day can contribute to overall health, well-being and increased energy level. She is an employee at the Indiana State Department of Health located in downtown Indianapolis. The health employees park in an off-site lot just over a half mile away. Some people opt to take the free shuttle from the lot to the ISDH building, while others opt for the 15 minute walk. Mary made a change in her daily routine and has definitely found the benefits in it.

“I have just celebrated my one year anniversary of walking to and from the parking lot (by the County Jail) instead of riding the shuttle. This I did as an alternative to the Thursday noontime walk sponsored by ISDH, as my job did not always allow me the flexibility to take off at noontime to participate. (Customer Service always comes first). Walking to and from ISDH to the parking lot was something that I could work into my daily routine without much added effort or time and especially no added money. Originally figuring that the cold winter weather would drive me back to using the shuttle, I was surprised that even the coldest weather never deterred me; the brisk morning weather woke me up, the chilly walk back invigorated me as I headed toward the car in the evening. (The heat of summer, it turned out, actually bothered me more than the cold). Before long, a year had passed.

What I have noticed from my year long trek in this past year show no outside measurable results to the casual observer. There are no spectacular before and after weight loss photos of me, no before and after measurements to post. I do have very muscular legs with definition that I never remembered having even back when I was younger and slimmer. I have more energy and stamina to do my daily tasks such as grocery shopping, cleaning, etc. The wind up and wind down time helps me face each day and unwind after it is over.

Walking this walk, I have met many other ISDH-ers doing the same thing, some who may have done this longer than me. There are many ways ISDH-ers can schedule exercise into their daily routine. This one has worked well for me”

Mary stuck by her decision to walk each day to and from the lot to work. By making little changes in our everyday routines, we can begin to see benefits that can enhance our daily life. Mary Keltner has provided a great example of how we can begin to become more healthy and generate better energy.

Evansville State Hospital

Evansville State Hospital has been actively engaging its employees in health and fitness, so much so that they have formed a fitness group to help accomplish this task. E-SHAPE (Evansville State Hospital Actively Promoting Exercise) meets to promote exercise and health at the hospital under the guise of the INShape Indiana initiative. The group distributes resources to employees to better help them on the track to a healthy and fit lifestyle.

Recently, the hospital presented its employees with its first ever, hospital-wide “Biggest Loser Challenge.” 67 staff participated on 18 teams for an eight week weight loss challenge (August 7, 2006-October 3, 2006). The results were astounding as the total weight lost by participants was 246 pounds! Of the 18 teams participating, 13 teams completed the challenge. 36 of the 57 participants (63%) were losers, losing an average of 7 lbs. The winning four person team was called the ”Lettuce Heads” consisting of participants Theresa Arvin, Donna Dant, Vicki Knight, Melissa Williams. The team lost a total of 38 pounds or 4.65% of their weight total.


The Lettuce Heads - Theresa Arvin, Donna Dant, Vicki Knight, Melissa Williams

Team names were creative and most had a diet conscious name such as Carbonaters, L.A. Fitness, Carrot Tops, Saucy Apples, Count Carbula, Tofu Trio.

Participants enjoyed the challenge and noted that fellow co-workers encouraged their efforts and were complimentary. Some team members were very competitive and had fun tempting other team members with goodies and treats throughout the eight week period. Several joined organized weight loss programs such as Weight Watchers, and either increased their time in the gym or joined a gym. The biggest individual losers were committed to their diet and daily exercise programs as evidenced by their overall weight loss. Encouraging words from the individual losers - "If I can do it, anyone can!"; "It feels great! Just losing 5 pounds makes all the difference in the world in the way you feel."

The winning team as well as the winning individual biggest losers received prize money from the entry fee of $5.00. The biggest male loser was Ivan Woods who lost 28 pounds or 11.06%; the biggest female loser was Theresa Arvin who lost 24 pounds or 15.68%.

The key to success for the losing team was drinking lots of water, exercise, small portion sizes, and support! Most of the participants commented that they would continue their exercise and diet programs.

Evansville State Hospital plans to have another weight loss challenge after the holidays in January. Their second hospital wide fitness challenge will begin in November with a weekly exercise challenge earning participants a chance to get their name in a drawing for a grand prize. The Hospital is eager to help its employees achieve their personal fitness goals.

Family Fitness Fun Day

Children in Crawfordsville schools and their parents enjoyed Family Fitness Fun Day on Saturday, May 13th. Approximately 100 people participated in cardio kickball, tennis, dance, volleyball, and other fitness-building activities. The activities were led by physical education teachers and high school sports and dance team members. In addition, the Crawfordsville Aquatics Center organized fitness opportunities to do in the pool. The day was supported and sponsored by the Carol M. White Physical Education Grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

Walk It Off

Walk It Off encouraged Montgomery County adults, children, and even pets to get out of the office or home on May 17th to walk for 30 minutes. The Montgomery County Wellness Council publicized adult-led walks at a variety of convenient locations. The wellness council, comprised of representatives from the park and recreation department, county health department, schools, medical community, county extension office, and local private fitness clubs, supports and encourages fitness activities for county residents. The emphasis on 30-minute walks demonstrated that fitness needs can be incorporated into one's day.

Richmond State Hospital (RSH) Choose to Lose Challenge

In February, Richmond State Hospital (RSH) kicked off the Choose to Lose weight-loss challenge. Choose to Lose was a 12-week program geared towards motivating employees to get moving and shed some unwanted pounds just in time for summer.

Sixteen teams of four participated in Choose to Lose. It was a terrific turnout of over 10% of the RSH staff joining. At the beginning of the program, each participant weighed in and received a water bottle and a pocket pal to track weight loss over the 12-week program. Each week, participants received an email full of beneficial tips on healthy snacking, exercise, and portion control. At the end of the program, participants measured their weight loss and the results were phenomenal. Eleven teams completed the challenge. These 44 employees shed an impressive 291 pounds!

 
Mary Chaney

The winning team lost a total of 58.5 pounds. The second and third place teams lost over 40 pounds. The biggest loser, Mary Chaney, walked away 22 pounds lighter! After the contest, winners were recognized with massages, gift baskets, gift certificates and much more.

The Choose to Lose weight-loss challenge was successful in helping many RHS employees reach their weight-loss goals and by helping these participants sustain healthy lifestyles.




From Left Cheryl Hylton, D'Aune Matheny, Debbie Allen and Barbara Jackson

Purdue No Smoking Policy

 


Academy Park, Lafayette Campus
Courtesy of Purdue University News Service

This August will mark the one-year anniversary of the new no smoking policy on the Purdue University campus in West Lafayette. Students and faculty no longer have to worry about the health risks of second-hand smoke when they are within 30 feet of a university facility, including buildings, shelters, theaters, and athletic facilities. Purdue's no smoking policy encourages individuals to quit smoking as it prohibits the sale, distribution, and advertisement of tobacco products on campus.

Purdue implemented its no smoking policy because it recognizes the well-established fact that second-hand smoke causes premature death to non-smokers and is a preventable health risk. The policy cites the connection between second-hand smoke and heart disease, cancer, respiratory problems, and eye and nasal irritation. The policy also notes that there has been no minimum level of second-hand smoke deemed "safe" by the Environmental Protection Agency. Any amount of smoke has the potential of harming health.

Smoking cessation assistance is offered on the Purdue campus through the WorkLife Programs, Student Wellness Office, and College of Nursing. For more information on the dangers of smoking and how to quit, visit the INShape Indiana Tobacco webpage at http://www.in.gov/inshape/tobacco/.

 

 

 

Shapedown

Through Shapedown, a Saint John's Health System program designed for pediatric and adolescent weight management, residents of Madison County are on their way to healthier lifestyles. The target population for the program includes kids between the ages of six and18 years. Weight loss, healthy eating habits, and increased physical activity are among the primary goals of the 10-week program.

Shapedown has worked wonders in the lives of many of its participants including, one very determined teen, Bailey Cox. Bailey has lost more than 30 pounds. The weight loss was so dramatic that when she returned to school this fall, many of her peers didn't even recognize her. Bailey, like others her age, indulged in a lot of foods and little exercise. It can be difficult for overweight/obese children to overcome their weight problems. A big factor in Bailey's weight loss was realizing greater health complications could surface in the future if she didn't lose weight.

Bailey's family did not realize the adverse effects Bailey's weight had on her until she entered the Shapedown program. Now, they see a big difference. Bailey not only realizes the difference in the mirror, but also in her level of confidence. Her mother, Beth makes an effort to encourage Bailey in her weight loss efforts and now buys healthier foods. "The main thing is not having junk in the house," Beth said. Beth realized that she is ultimately in control of the foods her children consume.

Shapedown has proven to be a great success in the lives of many families in Madison County. Through its leadership and program coordination, Saint John's Health System has improved the lives of many children and families. Otherwise, participants like Bailey may not have had the opportunity to lose weight and gain the confidence of engaging in a healthy lifestyle.

Baxter YMCA/ University of Indianapolis

The University of Indianapolis' Krannert School of Physical Therapy and the Baxter YMCA have teamed up to create the Fitness, Health and Wellness Program for community-dwelling adults with neurological conditions. This program meets weekly and serves people with a wide variety of neurological disabilities, including spinal cord injuries, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease.

In a relaxed social setting, first-year physical therapy students (supervised by older students) lead the disabled participants through an array of group and individual exercises designed to promote strength, endurance, and flexibility. The physical therapy students receive valuable hands-on experience in working with people with neurological conditions and the participants can expect an increase in stamina, range of motion, coordination, and physical strength.

This important program reaches out into the community to provide a much needed service of promoting health and wellness after a disability, and demonstrating the importance of fitness in improving the quality of life of all persons.

Fort Wayne - Allen County Department of Health Success Story

 

Staff at the Fort Wayne - Allen County Department of Health were invited this year to participate in a 12-week team program to facilitate weight loss through education, departmental support, and team motivation. Staff formed eight teams, and had their weight measured at the beginning and end of the program; weekly weigh-ins were optional. The department lost a total of more than 526 pounds over the 12 weeks.

For more information on Lighten the Load, including photos of the teams, click here.

 

 

DeKalb Memorial Hospital Success Story

In the spring of 2004, DeKalb Memorial Hospital launched a grass-roots community awareness campaign called “Commit to be Fit”, to affect the health and well-being of northeast Indiana residents. One of the first wellness programs of its kind in the state, participants gradually move through four levels of programming at their own pace. By learning and practicing the recommended healthy lifestyle habits, participants are rewarded with increased knowledge and enhanced well-being.

An internal wellness program for hospital employees called “Wellness Works” serves as the model for programs and services delivered to the local community and corporate clients. It coordinates traditional and non-traditional fitness classes, educational seminars, self-directed programs, and health risk profiles based on biometric screenings. By developing a comprehensive internal program, results are measured, and the design of future programs is based on those outcomes.

Levels of wellness programming include

  • Information
    To transfer information and resources via newsletters, email, web-sites
  • Motivation
    To assess stage of readiness to change
  • Behavior change
    To teach and reinforce new skills
  • Culture change
    To affect DeKalb Memorial Hospital 's cultural norms

DeKalb Memorial Hospital is using the above internal model to develop both the community and corporate wellness programs. With each successive level of programming, individuals and businesses enhance both their personal and fiscal well-being. When both individuals and companies accept the challenge and take action, the end result is a healthier, more productive community.

Grant County on the Go

 

Inspired by love for their community, a dedicated group of citizens banded together in 2004 to promote literacy and fitness in Grant County with "Grant County on the Go."

Grant County on the Go combines physical fitness with intellectual development; a concept known as wellness. Their first program, "Get Bookin' Into 2005" started in November of 2004 with a daylong fitness fair at the local shopping mall and finished in January 2005. A tracking log was made available to participants who were encouraged to do at least 20 minutes of physical activity or reading five days a week. Progress was tracked in the booklet. Prizes were awarded on a weekly basis at the shopping mall. Supplemental weekly activities, centered on physical fitness, nutrition, and literacy, were provided by Grant County on the Go for most weeks of the program.

Family Service Society, Inc., a nonprofit social service agency in Marion recognizes the importance of wellness and has made it possible for Kelly Turner to administer Grant County on the Go. It also handles bookkeeping for the group.

Funding for programs and prizes has come from the physicians at Marion Family Practice and Project Leadership. Several area businesses have donated prizes and staff for events. Participating groups include: Marion Public Library; City of Marion, Parks Department; North Park Mall; Marion Family Practice; Head Start, Marion Community Schools; Indiana Health Center; YMCA; Girl Scouts, Wapahani Council; Purdue Cooperative Extension; Chronicle-Tribune; Marion General Hospital Parish Nursing Program; Early Head Start-Carey Services; and the Tobacco Coalition.

Area families have flocked to the young program. The very first Bookin' It program involved more than 250 families. The excited response from the community has allowed Grant County on the Go to host two additional Bookin' It programs. Even Marion Mayor Wayne Seybold has gotten in on the act! To tie in with the Winter Olympics, their most recent program had a "Skate with the Mayor" afternoon where participants were invited to ice skate with Mr. Seybold, a former Olympian. This was his second time to join the event. The group will have their Grand Finale party on March 25th to award final prizes.

Grant County on the Go has also had special events. Last October they sponsored "Walking Through October" where the community was invited each Sunday to different locations throughout the county to walk. They were given a two-hour window in which to sign-up, and they walked at their own pace for whatever distance they liked. Local celebrities were at each walking location. Prizes were awarded for participation. The group is active in health fairs and other events that center on children. Last Halloween they participated in the Marion-wide trick or treat event at the mall and passed out bottles of water, bookmarks, and books.

In an effort to make the most use of their time and not duplicate the good work of other groups, Grant County on the Go has been in contact with several other community organizations. They are planning on setting up an awards program for those groups promoting wellness.

This is a group dedicated to the future of their county's youth and with the drive and determination to succeed. Be sure to check out their Web site, http://www.grantcountyonthego.org/, to keep up with all the exciting events and programs. They already have a summer program in the works which will focus on Marion parks; you don't want to miss out.

Indy in Motion

 

The Marion County Health Department (MCHD) in collaboration with Indy Parks & Recreation (Indy Parks) and the National Institute for Fitness and Sport (NIFS) launched "Indy in Motion", on September 28, 2002.

This program addresses problems associated with obesity and the lack of physical activity among residents of Marion County. Currently, Indy in Motion is offered at 14 sites, including three walking sites. These sites include parks and community centers throughout Marion County. All sites offer services such as walking, nutrition, and health education. Park sites with indoor facilities also offer low impact aerobics, strength and flexibility training for nearly all ages and fitness levels.

Training is led by qualified instructors from NIFS. MCHD employees, volunteers and/or Indy Parks staff members are present at most sites for Indy in Motion sessions to assist new participants in completing registration forms and to facilitate Indy in Motion activities. All activities are offered free of charge to participants. Since it began in 2002, more than 4,729 participants have registered for this program and approximately 120 new participants enroll in the program every month.

Please call (317) 221-3122 to register and participate in this free program or visit http://www.mchd.com/ for more details regarding this program.

This is what Indy in Motion participants have to say about the program

"I am now more active and enjoying it".

"I thank God for this program, it is a blessing. Thank You".

"I am very happy with the Indy in Motion. Hopefully it will be around a long time! Thank You".

Sullivan County Community Hospital Fitness Center

 

In October 2004, the Sullivan County Community Hospital Fitness Center opened its doors. Recognizing the communities' need for fitness, the hospital's board of trustees had a modern 10,000 square foot facility built to help carry out its mission of being the leading health and wellness provider in the county. Since the opening, the fitness center has been widely supported by the area.

Embracing Governor Mitch Daniels message and goals of INShape Indiana, Caryn Phillips, SCCH Fitness Center Director, implemented a "Biggest Loser" contest for the employees of the hospital and area residents. It began January 9, 2006 and will continue for 10 weeks. Prizes are awarded on a weekly basis with the grand prize based on the total percentage of body fat lost. Participants monitor their calorie intake and prepare a food journal while also receiving nutritional information and encouragement at each weigh-in. Awards will be given to those in "employee" and "member" categories. To date, 137 people have joined the program, of which 63 are hospital employees which accounts for nearly 30 percent of the total hospital staff. In the first week of the contest, 352 pounds were lost by the hard-working, dedicated individuals!

Based on the level of participation and enthusiasm, the SCCH Fitness Center hopes to continue this program for many years to come.

St. Vincent Clay Hospital

 

St. Vincent Clay Hospital (SVCH), a local health ministry of St. Vincent Health, embodies its mission with the belief that health and wellness should focus on the body, mind and, spirit. SVCH, located in Brazil, Indiana, is a 25-bed Critical Access Hospital that employs approximately 180 associates. Because the hospital is located in a rural setting, it serves as a major employer and a leader of health and wellness to the community. One of the most recent health initiatives has been the implementation of a smoke-free workplace as of January 2006. This initiative was supported by educational initiatives such as the Quit Smart Smoking cessation classes for associates. The hospital was also was able to partner with the local health department to compliment the efforts of the program and its participants by offering free nicotine replacement patches. Although this program is relatively new to the hospital, the response from associates has been encouraging. In addition to the smoking cessation program, the hospital also offers an annual associate health assessment and health risk screenings. The annual health screening, offered free of charge, allows associates to receive health screenings such has cholesterol level, blood pressure and EKG. In 2005, SVCH also offered a Weight Watchers at Work program. This program was well attended by associates and lead to a total weight loss of over 300 pounds.

Another popular incentive offered to associates is the YMCA program. The hospital supports associate health by offering the benefit of a free YMCA membership to those associates that engage in physical activity three times a week for 30 minutes at the YMCA of Clay County. As an added incentive, those associates receive a discount on their health insurance, as well as an additional eight hours of time off when the participants complete the program for one-year. The hospital also lives out its mission by focusing on the health and well being of its associates through the renewing of the mind and spirit. The hospital’s Mission Team offers associates an opportunity to attend a Renewal Day during the year. The purpose of the Renewal Day is to invite and encourage associates to take time to reflect on their purpose while refreshing in a quite, relaxed atmosphere.

In its community, SVCH has taken the lead in community health. The hospital recently completed the annual flu vaccine campaign, which provided over 900 flu vaccines to the community. The hospital focused much of its efforts on the senior population and those identified as high-risk.

Another popular community health program is the Diabetic Education class. This six-week class is held throughout the year and is offered free of charge. The class combines a multidisciplinary approach to diabetes management by including a nurse, dietician, physical therapist and pharmacist into the learning environment. Since 2004, the hospital has also sponsored and supported the local student athletes by providing an Athletic Trainer (ATC) at the local high school. The ATC serves as an injury prevention and management expert to the coaching staff and students. The hospital supports the ATC program at the school because we feel that student participation in physical activities in high school can later lead to a lifetime commitment to an active health lifestyle. In August 2005, the hospital again partnered with the local high school to present a community health fair at the first home football game. The event was called “Take a Time Out for Better Health.” The associate volunteers wore referee shirts and offered blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, and fitness health screenings just to name a few. The health fair also highlighted 40 different vendors who offered information about the physical and mental health services available in the community. The variety of events and programs offered and supported by SVCH, are evidence of the hospital’s commitment to getting Indiana INShape!

Bedford Regional Medical Center

 

In 2004, Bedford Regional Medical Center's (BRMC) Health Management Department, which includes Diabetes Education and Occupational Health & Safety, decided to expand its community programs to better serve Lawrence County and the surrounding areas of South Central Indiana.

BRMC's Health Management Department began with an informal needs assessment of the three major groups within its reach: employees, patients, and the surrounding workforce.

The assessment identified a need for programs and initiatives that address the long-term health of individuals, and the rising cost of health care for employers. Most businesses surrounding BRMC employ less than 400 employees, and do not have many resources to create wellness programs of their own. As a result of these findings, BRMC Health Management Department developed the Employee Wellness Program.

This program helps businesses identify the top five to 10 health insurance claims or prescriptions taken by employees and tailor a menu of resources based on specific need. The offerings include:

  • Employee assessments and health risk screenings
  • Program design consultation
  • Smoking cessation classes
  • Vaccinations
  • Diabetic screenings
  • Weight control and stress management
  • Exercise and fitness education
  • Nutrition and disease

The Employee Wellness Program focuses on case management to improve the success of an employee's decision to improve his/her personal well-being. Employees are encouraged to participate in regular health screenings to remain motivated and allow the measurement of their progress as they reach their personal goals. All data collected at the health screenings is kept confidential.

BRMC has made major strides towards improving the health of Lawrence County and the surrounding areas. BRMC demonstrates the impact a local hospital can have on its community.