Everyday Advocacy: Improving community health outcomes
"I try to practice what I preach. Five years ago, it was just me knowing that something needed to be done, but now we have more than 100 organizations involved who are energized about improving quality of life and care in our county."
Audrey Hardy, MSN, RN,
ANA/NCNA Member
Several years ago, Halifax County was ranked 99th of 100 North Carolina counties for health outcomes by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. It had high rates of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and strokes.
We were alarmed about that and knew we needed to do something about it to try to get people healthier before they came to the hospital.
As the Community Health Coordinator, I oversee the Roanoke Valley Community Health Initiative, a coalition of 100 organizations, schools, and churches. We organize events, encourage wellness programs, and educates kids about healthy eating. So far, the initiative has impacted more than 30,000 people.
I try to practice what I preach. Five years ago, it was just me knowing that something needed to be done, but now we have more than 100 organizations involved who are energized about improving quality of life and care in our county.
