Our Community Wellness Program works with communities of all sizes to address what the Institute of Medicine has identified: our community context has an impact on our health. The physical layout and design of our communities, the infrastructure, the policies, and the sub-systems (like work or school) within our communities can either help or hurt our health. With an emphasis on community engagement, Delaware Greenways can help communities initiate change to make living a healthier lifestyle easier. Our approach involves assessing community strengths and weaknesses, identifying opportunities for change, developing an action plan, and leading the community to make the healthy options easier.
Currently, Delaware Greenways is involved with the following direct activities related to community wellness:
- We are working with the City of New Castle on their Community Wellness Initiative.
- We are bringing to life the Historic Penn Farm that will provide recreational space, education, activities, and fresh produce that will jumpstart more active, healthy, and fulfilling lives.
Possible outcomes of the Community Wellness Program include:
- Increased and enhanced walking/bicycling routes
- Improved access to healthy foods
- Establishment of No-smoking policies
- Better understanding and awareness of health and resources