Updated directory of local health coalitions published

The Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky has released an updated directory of groups working on health in the state. It includes 230 groups representing all 120 counties as well as statewide coalitions doing work to improve the health of Kentuckians.

"These coalitions are largely local efforts involving neighbors and colleagues working on solutions to health issues where they live, work and raise their families," said Susan Zepeda, president and CEO of the foundation. "Our aim in keeping this directory updated is to raise awareness of efforts to improve health in local communities  and across the state, foster collaboration among the coalitions, increase their capacity to make a difference, and celebrate their successes."

The groups have differing goals and levels of organization. For example, some are increasing access to healthy food and physical activity; others are planning screenings and education for people at risk for serious health problems such as cancer, diabetes and other chronic diseases; others are improving the health of their communities through smoke-free or complete-streets ordinances.

Coalitions were identified by consolidating lists of known groups, reaching out at meetings and events, reviewing news clippings on local efforts, requesting additional entries from partner agencies, and conducting a web-based survey.  The directory is a living document, and the foundation welcomes established coalitions to share updates and new coalitions to be added. Contact Rachelle Seger, rseger@healthy-ky.org.

The 2016 Kentucky Health Coalitions Directory can be found on the foundation's website.