It’s Time to Think Ahead
By: Judy Sabbert-Muck

The term “healthy community” may be new to you. Armed with an understanding of this concept though, you will see the value of embracing it now. A healthy, vital community is when you see:
•Peaceful homes and communities.
•Thriving Businesses.
•Children who are nurtured.
•Education, the arts and recreation are inspired.
•Individuals who are valued, even treasured, as community contributors.
•The health and well-being of every individual as a priority.
• People, businesses, schools and organizations working together to shape the future of our communities.

To achieve these goals, it does take all of us working together. We should be interested in and plan for the future, because it is where we will spend the rest of our lives. Our communities should be valued by and valuable to the young and old alike. This requires us all to become engaged and involved now this icludes looking to our youth.

Reversing the Trend
“Our children are our future.” You have probably said or heard that many times. For some it’s just a phrase and for others it’s a scary thought. Research shows that the rate of public participation by Americans has declined significantly. In fact, forty percent fewer citizens have volunteered their time over the last few decades. These same researchers predict that this trend will only worsen until we begin to take action. We must begin to think in new ways. It starts by teaching our children to be responsible and active citizens. When our youth learn the importance of volunteerism, leadership, maintaining healthy habits, making good decisions and the power of choosing to be positive, we can look ahead with anticipation rather than with fear of the future.

Good for Business
As people are encouraged and empowered to make a difference and see their potential realized, we can expect their health and well-being to improve, and the community as a whole will become healthier. Let’s engage employees and citizens from all walks of life in building healthier, more livable communities. As a result, businesses will see higher productivity, greater innovation, healthier and more satisfied employees, lower insurance costs, and a better return on investment. With engaged citizens, communities will experience a better quality of life, a more vital economy and the capacity to affect positive change. You quickly begin to see the implications here. Focus on making a difference now, and reap the rewards later. It’s good for business, it’s good for our families and it’s good for our communities.

Looking Forward to the Future
It’s time to think ahead. Let’s lead the way by taking some simple steps. Be a positive role model for children. Let’s expect more out of our youth, our leaders and each other. Provide opportunities for meaningful participation starting with the younger generation. Believe in them and acknowledge that each and every person in our community has something to contribute. Value different perspectives and life experiences. Stay open to the possibilities. These simple ideas are steps in the right direction, and I’m hopeful these actions will lead us to the right answers for a bright, prosperous future.

Judy Sabbert-Muck is the Chief Operating Officer of the Heartland Foundation, a subsidiary of Heartland Health. She can be reached at 816.271.7200.