Community Success Stories
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
Beginning the first week of January, the Lafayette Area IV Agency on Aging and Community Action Programs decided to start an office "Lunch Bunch." Each Saturday Kim, their beloved food preparer, goes to her local county market and stocks up on healthy foods to bring in Monday morning. Anyone participating in the “Lunch Brunch” program can graze throughout the day on the foods available.
The Area IV Agency "Lunch Bunch" began with six members. Now, four months later, 16 people consistently participate each week.
Since the program’s inception, one employee has lost 15 pounds and many others between 5-15 pounds. The group’s total caloric intake decreased by avoiding carbonated beverages, increasing water intake to eight glasses a day, and eating a healthy breakfast.
“Lunch Brunch” created a new camaraderie among Area IV Agency workers, despite having worked together for years. Now, they make a habit of meeting up each afternoon in the break room. They share recipes, exercise tips, and support, encourage and hold each other accountable. The commitment to living healthy lifestyles improved the worker’s overall mental and physical health.
Scott County YMCA
The Scott County, Kentuckiana, community is no stranger to obesity. Fast food chains are prevalent, youth are more sedentary than ever, and fitness and nutrition education is in high demand.
At the Scott County Family YMCA, obesity does not stand a chance against the Fall into Fitness program. This elementary fitness, education program engages students in exercise at school and challenges them to learn more about nutrition, fitness, and overall wellness at home. Increasing children's knowledge and health capabilities is the program’s goal.
Fall into Fitness worked with 160 third, fourth, and fifth graders 30-40 minutes each week on physical exercise. Packets of nutritional information, nutrition games, exercise puzzles, and a list of activities to complete for points motivated the children. Student’s success earned them the Governor's Fitness Award, signed by Governor Mitch Daniels and their favorite quarterback, Peyton Manning.
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!”
The Scott County Family YMCA was very happy to see great success in the program, and most importantly, in the lives of the participants. The YMCA hopes to have made a difference in children’s choices about future personal health and wellness. Make a difference in obesity trends and challenge children to make healthy choices, today.
Fueling Your Family
(Children learn about healthy fast food options)
Fort Wayne continues pushing to become a leader in promoting healthier communities. The Fueling Your Family: Food, Fun & Fitness Fair, led by “America on the Move” in Fort Wayne and its 30 Collaborating Companies, helped educate and motivate children and families to choose healthy eating and active living.
In late August, children, their parents and grandparents engaged in a variety of activities geared towards hands-on learning and fun. Master gardeners helped children plant salad greens for take-home harvesting and the Portion Teller focused on portion control. Other booths included brain foods, healthy budget- friendly snacks, fruit and veggie taste testing, sports nutrition and other smart eating strategies. In addition, parents learned good role model behaviors, such as planning, label reading, and healthy school lunch choices to help improve child performance.
A Farmer’s Market featured fresh fruits and vegetables, while the Fast Food in the Fast Lane exhibit offered healthy and unhealthy drive-thru choices with unique titles, like the Sam Hornish Jr. special. Children choosing less healthy offerings were asked to drive around again and make a healthier decision. When a healthy choice was made, children received a Frisbee and a fast food guide.
Another crowd pleaser was the “Design your own Place Mat” booth where children could personalize place mats and take them home. The Cooking Demos proved just as popular and chefs from local AOM restaurants created Fun with Ramen Noodles, Bruschetta Chicken Pomodoro, and Cookie Pizza Dessert demonstrations. Taste testing and recipes were great additions to the healthy cooking at home message.
Fueling Your Family was a wonderful collaborative effort designed to impact the health of children and parents. The goal of the fair was to continue reinforcing the healthy eating, active moving theme of America on the Move. It also provided parents tangible ways to get their children and themselves on a healthy lifestyles path. Let’s 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, 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 children met the physical standards of the Presidential Fitness Challenge. All of the students have been able to participate in fun fitness activities improving social and academic skills, overall self-esteem, and good nutritional habits. 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 recording 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.
- Collect 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
In an effort to raise money for three local charities and get in better physical shape, men 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 the journey. Although many challenges lied ahead, they knew getting in shape and helping others would be worth it.
The spring of 2006 began the year long training regime, which included home stationary and recumbent bike riding, gym workouts, riding with a weekly bike group, and 40 mile rides whenever the weather allowed. Although improving their health and training for the rigors of the cross-country journey were important, raising money for awareness was the team’s ultimate goal.
When June of 2007 arrived, the team headed west on the “Coast to Coast Charity Bike Ride,” supported by businesses, family and friends. The team dipped their tires in the Pacific Ocean at Oceanside, California on June 3rd then started back east. The pedaling lasted 24 days and covered approximately 3,200 miles. On June 26th, the trip concluded in Washington, D.C. with a ceremonial tire dipping in the Atlantic Ocean.
The team’s 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; each of them lost 20 pounds. Although these men sacrificed greatly, they all agreed it was a worthwhile experience.
City of Yorktown
On June 1, 2007, the City of Yorktown, Indiana held a ribbon cutting ceremony for its new wellness trail, the second placed in Delaware County. The “LifeTrail” wellness system incorporates 10 stops along a walking trail designed to improve strength and flexibility.
Judy Ritter, vice president of planning and development for LifeStream Services, said she looks forward to the improved health of area residents, particularly within the senior demographic.
The LifeTrail design hopes to seamlessly enhance individuals’ daily walking routine. The equipment at the 10 stations covers the body’s major muscle groups and people of all ages can benefit from its use.
Northwest Indiana
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 area organizations to adapt INShape Indiana’s 10 in 10 Challenge specifically for senior participation. As an Area Agency on Aging, Northwest Indiana Community Action wanted to create access to INShape Indiana for seniors and other citizens without Internet skills or access. Thankfully, with permission from the Governor’s Council, the NWICA tailored the program to meet senior needs, focusing on wellness rather than weight loss.
NWICA’s Preventative Health and Outreach responded by creating handouts 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 as educational resources.
As a result of the 10 in 10 Challenge, East Chicago participants enjoyed the following programs:
- Senior lunch groups enjoyed presentations and two special events discussing INShape Indiana lessons and how they applied them daily. They reported successfully exercising at home using routines pictured in Nutrition Awareness Day handouts.
- Seniors at the Bessie Owens Center began walking in the gym daily. The weekly tips helped walkers lower their cholesterol and reduce Arthritis symptoms.
- At Hunter Hi-Rise, seniors began walking before lunch and discussing fitness and nutrition handouts.
- Roxanna seniors reported decreasing their sugar intake, and eating smaller portions on smaller plates.
- Community Services of Starke County helped recruit many senior participants. 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 with dishes including healthier offerings. Participants share recipes, also.
NWICA congratulates the participants who are all winners in the quest for better health. A big thanks to the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports and their community partners, also.
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”.
Teams consisted of 2-6 individuals holding each other accountable, sharing information, and supporting one another. Winners were based on pounds lost by an individual and percentage lost by a team. Along with the challenge, the event committee incorporated other wellness events, such as a Wellness Fair, Family Fun Day, Fall Nature Walk, etc.
Another LSH weight loss challenge joined with INShape’s 10 in 10 Challenge to help 61 of 72 people lose a combine total of 361.1 pounds. In this challenge, the women lost more pounds than the men.
Sarah Rutschmann participated in all three challenges and continued to lose weight with each. Her amazing team, the right support system and setting achievable goals were keys to her success. Her team consisted of women from different backgrounds and disciplines within the hospital; sharing the same goals like weight loss, healthy eating, incorporation of an exercise program, and providing support.
Sarah’s team joined a website promoting communication among other LSH staff going through the same issues. There, they shared messages, recipe ideas, magazine articles and emails. Sarah’s team also walked on lunch breaks and participated in the 10 in 10 Challenge. These women not only obtained a lifestyle change, but also gained a truly wonderful friendship.
IN State Prison
The Indiana State Prison (ISP) staff took advantage of INShape Indiana and renovated an older building into a modern recreational gym and fitness area. Recently, the fitness area added new, donated equipment.
Lt. Daryl Walls Lifting weights in ISP Fitness Room
Getting in shape and staying healthy became contagious at the 146-year old maximum security prison. ISP staff created team weight loss competitions and fun runs and walks to encourage staff to get healthy. Recently, the staff raised over $1,000 for Riley Children’s Foundation by sponsoring each other in a local all day walking event. One correctional officer walked 35 miles in ten hours.
Officer Charles Ritchey
after losing 100 pounds
This new attitude toward fitness helped some staff with more physically demanding jobs. This summer, correctional officers patrolled the perimeter on bikes instead of vehicles. The decision to utilize bicycles was initially made to save money due to rising gas costs, but shortly become one of the most popular jobs.
“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 committing to a lifestyle change to better his health. Ten months after his New Year’s resolution to lose weight, Officer Ritchie is 100 pounds lighter.
“I made sure that the calories going in were less than the energy I expended,” said Charles Ritchie.
The offender population also took part and recently ordered running shoes, pedometers, and other health-related items. They are currently 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.
Mary Keltner
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 chose to walk.
“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.
Evansville State Hospital
Evansville State Hospital actively engages 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 guidance of INShape Indiana. The group distributes resources to employees to help them keep a healthy and fit lifestyle.
In 2006, 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. The results were astounding as the total weight lost by participants was 246 pounds! Of the 18 teams participating, 13 teams completed the challenge and 36 of the 57 participants (63%) were losers, losing an average of 7 lbs. The winning four person team called themselves the “Lettuce Heads.” Theresa Arvin, Donna Dant, Vicki Knight, Melissa Williams lost 38 pounds total, 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. 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 biggest male loser was Ivan Woods who lost 28 pounds; the biggest female loser was Theresa Arvin who lost 24 pounds.
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. The Hospital is eager to help its employees achieve their personal fitness goals.
Family Fitness Fun Day
Children and parents from Crawfordsville schools 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 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 outside on May 17th for a 30 minutes walk. The Montgomery County Wellness Council publicized adult-led walks at a variety of convenient locations. The wellness council comprised of representatives from the parks 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 every 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, 10% of which were RSH staff. At the beginning of the program, each participant weighed in and received a water bottle and a pocket pal to track weight loss. 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 sustain healthy lifestyles.
From Left Cheryl Hylton, D'Aune Matheny, Debbie Allen and Barbara Jackson
Purdue No Smoking
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 recognized 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 and 18 years. Weight loss, healthy eating habits, and increased physical activity are among the primary goals of the 10-week program.
Shapedown worked wonders in the lives of many including, Bailey Cox. Bailey lost more than 30 pounds. The weight loss was so dramatic that when she returned to school this fall, many of her peers did not recognize her. Bailey, like others teens, indulged in large food portions and little exercise. It is often difficult for overweight/obese children to overcome weight issues, but Bailey realized greater health complications could surface later if she did not start losing.
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 confidence level. Her mother, Beth, makes an effort to encourage Bailey 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 Madison County families. Through its leadership and program coordination, Saint John's Health System has improved the lives of many children and families.
Baxter YMCA
The University of Indianapolis' Krannert School of Physical Therapy and the Baxter YMCA 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
Staff at the Fort Wayne - Allen County Department of Health was invited to participate in a 12-week team program facilitating 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 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
In the spring of 2004, DeKalb Memorial Hospital launched a grass-roots community awareness campaign called “Commit to be Fit”, affecting the health and well-being of northeast Indiana residents. The wellness program is one of the first of its kind in the state. Participants gradually move through four levels of programming to learn and practice healthy lifestyle habits.
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 future programs are designed.
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 used 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
In 2004, a dedicated group of citizens inspired by love for their community joined together to create “Grant County on the Go,” promoting literacy and fitness in Grant County.
“Grant County on the Go” combines physical fitness and intellectual development, also known as wellness. The first program, "Get Bookin' Into 2005," started in November of 2004 with a fitness fair at the local shopping mall. Tracking logs helped encourage participants to do at least 20 minutes of physical activity or reading five days a week. Weekly prizes were awarded and supplemental weekly activities centered on physical fitness, nutrition, and literacy were provided.
Family Service Society, Inc., a nonprofit social service agency in Marion recognized the importance of wellness and made it possible for Kelly Turner to administer “Grant County on the Go.”
Funding for programs and prizes has come from the Marion Family Practice physicians and Project Leadership. Several area businesses donated prizes and staffing for events. Participating groups included: 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.
The excited response from the community allowed “Grant County on the Go” to host two additional “Bookin' It” programs, the first involving 250 families.
Even Marion Mayor Wayne Seybold, a former Olympian, participated with his "Skate with the Mayor” program.
Last October, “Grant County on the Go” sponsored "Walking Through October," a community walk through the county every Sunday. They were given a two-hour sign-up window and walked at their own pace for whatever distance they liked. Local celebrities attended and prizes were awarded.
In an effort to make the utilize time and avoid duplicating the work of other groups, “Grant County on the Go” contacted several other community organizations. They plan to set up an awards program for those groups promoting wellness.
This group is dedicated to the future of their county's youth. 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 it.
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” has 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 activities. All activities are free 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
October 2004, the Sullivan County Community Hospital Fitness Center opened its doors to help carry out its mission of being the leading health and wellness provider in the county. Recognizing the communities' need for fitness, the hospital's board of trustees built a modern 10,000 square foot facility. 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 hospital employees and area residents. Prizes are awarded weekly with the grand prize based on the total percentage of body fat lost. Participants monitor their caloric intake and prepare a food journal while receiving nutritional information and encouragement at each weigh-in, also. Awards will be given to each "employee" and "member" categories. To date, 137 people have joined. 63 hospital employees account for nearly 30 percent of the total hospital staff. In the first week of the contest, these hardworking, dedicated individuals lost 352 pounds.
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. 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 the Quit Smart Smoking cessation classes for associates. The hospital also partnered with the local health department to offer 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. This program was well attended by associates and lead to a total weight loss of over 300 pounds.
Another popular incentive offered is the YMCA program. The hospital supports associate health by offering a free YMCA membership to those exercising three times a week for 30 minutes. Added incentives for program completion include discounted health insurance and an additional eight hours of time off.
The hospital’s Mission Team offers associates an opportunity to attend a Renewal Day during the year. Renewal Day invites and encourages associates to take time and reflect on their purpose.
In its community, SVCH has taken the lead in community health, especially with senior and high risk cases. The hospital recently completed the annual flu vaccine campaign, which provided over 900 flu vaccinations to the community.
Another popular community health program is the Diabetic Education class. 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 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 supported the ATC program in hopes physical activity among high school students would lead to a lifetime commitment to health.
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 offering 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, expanded 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 needs. 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 commitment to his/her personal well-being. Employees are encouraged to participate in regular health screenings and measure their progress as they reach their personal goals. All data collected at the health screenings is 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.
- What is INShape Indiana?
- How do I create an INShape account?
- Where is the INShape Indiana login page?
- How do I request a representative from INShape Indiana to attend my event?
- Can I talk to an INShape Indiana nutritionist about my specific health needs?
- Can I talk to an INShape Indiana fitness trainer about my specific health needs?
