Harrisonburg and Rockingham County

Healthy Community Council

For more information send email to info@healthycommunitycouncil.org

What is it?

The Healthy Community Council is a gathering of representatives from more than 100 entities with a stake in the Harrisonburg/ Rockingham County Community - government, schools, business, higher education, health and human services, faith Community, law enforcement, media - all working together to improve the quality of life in our Community.

Why was it formed?

 Because " A healthier community is not just some random outcome. It is instead the result of caring, committed individuals joining together in an ambitious joint effort."  (Len Duhl, Community movement pioneer)

What is its mission?

To enhance the quality of life for the community through collaborative efforts of individuals, agencies, and institutions.

What does it do?

First, we assess community needs.  Extensive written surveys designed to comprehensively assess our community’s quality of life are supplemented with focus groups and face-to-face interviews.

The bi-annual youth survey takes place again in 2005 and the five-year adult surveys in 2006.  Look for survey results on the website late in 2006.

Next, we identify areas of priority based upon what the assessment data reveals.  Which results are surprising?  What are our strengths?  Challenges?  Priority areas for 1996-2001 included Seniors, Youth and the Intercultural population.

Early in 2002, we held State of the Community Summits to examine the most recent data collected and work with community members to identify new priorities.  Six priority Action Teams were formed to develop and implement a five-year plan. They include:

Finally, we help plan and coordinate initiatives that are implemented in response to each priority area. Successes to date include:

When does the HCC meet?

The GREEN TEAM meets on the FOURTH THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH at 3:00 p.m. at the United Way office located at 420 Chesapeake Ave., Harrisonburg. 434-6639

STEERING COMMITTEE

The HCC STEERING COMMITTEE meets on the FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH from 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. at the United Way office located 420 Chesapeake Ave., Harrisonburg. 434-6639

The full Healthy Community Council meets once each quarter. Please email Staci Morris SMORRIS@RHCC.com to be  added to the mailing list to receive meeting notices.

Want to learn more? 

For information on how you and your organization can take an active role in improving the quality of life in the Harrisonburg/ Rockingham County area email info@healthycommunitycouncil.org