projects , such as maintaining a community garden , sponsoring community 5ks and providing important resources on wellness and behavior change initiatives .
Understanding the economic value of wellness , Healthy Berkeley aims to create a healthy culture and a healthy workforce , making the community a desirable place to live and work .
A community , like Berkeley County , striving for a healthier population can benefit greatly from some support , and Try This aims to do just that . The organization aspires to knock West Virginia off the top of the worst health lists , community by community , by building a statewide grassroots network of healthy community leaders who expand opportunities for physical activity and / or healthy food in their communities .
“ Try This is most known for our mini-grant projects , which offer up to $ 3,000 to local grassroots community teams to carry out a healthy community project that increases access to physical activity and healthy food , especially in communities that need it most ,” says Brittney Barlett , executive director of Try This West Virginia .
According to Barlett , Try This offers more than funding for communities ; it provides the opportunity to gain leadership skills , obtain grant writing and project management experience and network with other public health advocates and organizations that are working toward similar objectives .
“ On top of statistics , there ’ s no denying it just feels good to be healthy . Physically , mentally , emotionally and relationally , being healthy has no downsides ,” says Barlett . “ Knowing you can have energy for your kids , run around and play games with your family , not feel left out when a strenuous activity is suggested — these things are invaluable — and having a healthy body filled with healthy food means you feel good , look good and can count on more years of happiness with the people you love .”
West Virginia is blessed to have a variety of organizations all working toward a similar goal . Complementing each other , and each of equal importance , the work these organizations are doing is vital to the health and well-being of the Mountain State . •
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