HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Community Wellness Coalition is bringing local organizations and residents together to address some of the county’s most significant health challenges
Coalition representatives Candice Davidson and Cara Bunce said the organization is focused on building a healthier Reno County through collaboration, inclusiveness and open communication
The coalition includes several specialized work groups: the Food Advisory Council, Reno County School Health and Wellness Alliance, Mental Health Task Force, Healthcare Access Task Force, Reno Recovery Collaborative and Bike Walk Hutch
The organization grew from earlier local wellness initiatives. Its history dates to the Personal Health Initiative Team formed in 2004. That effort later evolved into the Healthy Eating, Active Living initiative, known as HEAL, which operated from approximately 2012 to 2022
Coalition members recently helped complete the latest Reno County Community Health Assessment. The assessment identified six priority areas: access to health care, behavioral health and substance use, food security, transportation, affordable housing and health disparities
Improving access to affordable dental, behavioral and specialty care is one of the coalition’s primary objectives. The assessment also calls for expanded early intervention programs for at-risk youth, additional peer support and a stronger recovery network
Food security efforts are being led by the Food Advisory Council, chaired by Darla Fisher and co-chaired by Tina Wells. Its strategic plan focuses on senior citizens, families, school-age children, the Reno County Food Bank, food reclamation and reducing food waste
The Reno County School Health and Wellness Alliance is working to help children from birth through early college age remain healthy and connected to their communities. The group is also seeking greater participation from parents and families while building partnerships with Reno County school districts
Mental health is another major area of concern. The Mental Health Task Force includes representatives from law enforcement, health care, nonprofit organizations and other community groups. Its work includes increasing awareness, reducing stigma and improving the mental health experience for Reno County residents
The Reno Recovery Collaborative focuses on preventing substance misuse and ensuring prevention, treatment and recovery re, schools, health care professionals and people with lived recovery experience
Residents interested in joining a work group or learning more about the coalition can visit rccwc.org
