As 2012 comes to a close, and we’re all caught up in giving to those we love, we want to take a moment to review all the wonderful moments of giving that have come to pass this year through our Challenge Grant partners. This year, we’ve witnessed so many selfless acts and seen such hard work poured into our collective goal — making Louisiana a healthier place to live. We’ve seen ground broken for construction of new walking/running trails, we’ve seen new fitness equipment installed on playgrounds, we’ve marked the opening of new farmers markets in “food desert” regions, we’ve held health fairs offering blood pressure and cholesterol screenings… And this is only the beginning. So, before we dive into 2013, let’s take a moment to celebrate the highlights captured since Challenge for a Healthier Louisiana, our $10.2 million grant program supporting new healthy living initiatives across the state, officially kicked off this past fall. And catch a few “holiday health wishes” for 2013 from our Challenge Grant leaders. Thanks to all of you who have been a part of this effort. And here’s to a happier, healthier New Year!
Oct. 2012: BCBSLAF Executive Director Christy Reeves and Board Chairman Dr. Richard Atkins welcomed Grant Challenge winners at our celebration dinner Wednesday night.
Christy Reeves, Executive Director, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation: My holiday health wish for 2013 is that many of our Louisiana citizens seize the opportunity to get involved with Challenge for a Healthier Louisiana projects and take action toward incorporating healthy eating and active living into their lives. My hope is that their involvement with these projects will ignite an epidemic of health throughout our state to stem the rise of obesity and that people will begin to realize the value of their health for themselves and their families.
Melissa Flurry, VP-Regional Innovation (CLEDA), Central Louisiana Local Foods Initiative: For 2013, we and our partners are all hoping and working for happier, healthier citizens who eat lots of locally-grown fruits and vegetables!
Foundation: Our 2013 Holiday Health Wish is for a healthier lifestyle for our community in 2013 and beyond as we all embrace the new pathway and mobile recreation unit and to making these opportunities a part of our everyday lives!
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Joseph F Lockwood, Project Coordinator, West End Health and Wellness Project: My wish for 2013 is that the enthusiasm for our West End gardens program translates into an equal level of enthusiasm for healthy eating and active life styles among the residents of the West End community!
