Health, Parks Departments Partner for Health
The Hamilton County Health Department will use state grant funding to support a series of community-focused health and wellness programs through Hamilton County Parks and Recreation (HCPR) aimed at encouraging physical activity, improving mental health, and promoting overall well-being. These initiatives will support residents and visitors with a variety of outdoor and fitness activities designed to combat obesity and support mental health.
One of the components of this funding is the introduction of a Bike Share Program at Strawtown Koteewi Park and the White River Campground. This program offers readily available bikes for park-goers and campers who are unable to bring their own to the park. By providing convenient access to bicycles, individuals will be encouraged to explore the park and incorporate physical activity into their visit.
HCHD will also fund additional exercise equipment at HCPR parks. The creation of additional fitness stations in various parks is aimed at offering free, accessible exercise opportunities to people of all ages and fitness levels. The goal is to eventually offer instructor-led classes using the equipment at these parks.
Through a collaboration with the Hamilton County Youth Assistance Program (HCYAP), HCPR will provide outdoor recreational activities at the Strawtown Koteewi Park Adventure Area to at-risk youth with HCHD funding. These programs, which have already proven successful, offer young people free access to unique therapeutic and educational experiences, such as equestrian programs and archery, while also promoting mental health through outdoor engagement. HCPR’s goal is to expand this collaboration and provide even more opportunities for youth to develop positive habits and connect with nature.
A new partnership with Camptown will introduce the “Wilderness to Wellness” program, an adventure-based initiative that focuses on building resilience and teaching coping skills to at-risk youth through activities like hiking, rock climbing, and wilderness travel. This program will combine physical activity with mental health education, empowering participants to develop both physical and emotional strength. The program will provide a much-needed diversion for at-risk youth, introducing them to activities they may not have experienced before while also fostering positive mental health outcomes.
Yoga continues to be a popular offering within the county’s park programs. The Health Department will help support the ongoing success of the free Sunset Yoga Program at the Osprey Pointe Pavilion, where participants can unwind and relax with guided yoga sessions while enjoying the scenic view over the water. In addition, the free Y12SR Recovery Yoga program, which supports individuals recovering from substance use disorders, will continue, offering a crucial therapeutic outlet for those affected by addiction. Both programs have seen tremendous success, with participants praising the calming and rejuvenating effects of yoga in a peaceful, natural setting.
Finally, HCPR’s numerous walking programs, including the Senior Walking Club, Moms’ Walking Club, and Forest Bathing Hikes, will be supported through this funding. The Health Department will enhance these programs by providing health services such as blood pressure checks, BMI measurements, and educational materials on the benefits of walking, injury prevention, and hydration. These walking programs already serve hundreds of participants annually and will now be able to expand and offer even greater health benefits.
“We are grateful for the Hamilton County Health Department’s support with funding these initiatives to enhance the health and well-being of our community,” said Chris Stice, Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Director. “These programs are ideal for helping our community reduce obesity, improve mental health, and provide individuals with the tools they need to lead healthier, more active lives.”
The funding from the Hamilton County Health Department will help ensure these programs are accessible to as many people as possible, fostering a healthier, more active community. For more information on these initiatives and how to get involved, residents are encouraged to visit the Hamilton County Parks and Recreation website or follow their social media channels for updates.