This funding is the first step in a strategic initiative that is part of Healthcare Foundation of Wilson’s shift in focus to invest a larger percentage of funds in proactive, collaborative work to support sustainable opportunities. Healthcare Foundation of Wilson will continue to operate the responsive grant cycle each January for organizations to apply for grant funding.
“Our focus on strategic initiatives is an effort to make a meaningful impact in our community over a longer period of time,” said Denise O’Hara, executive director of Healthcare Foundation of Wilson. “The middle school age is one of the biggest opportunities to make a difference for youth – to steer their lives and help them begin to make decisions that will benefit them over their entire lifetime.”
The scope of the proposed program aligns with Healthcare Foundation of Wilson’s four priorities, which are primarily focused on youth and include the prevention of obesity, adolescent pregnancy, alcohol and substance abuse, and sexually transmitted diseases. The proposed program also closely aligns with the core value of collaboration and the priorities of Wilson 20/20 to improve the health and wellness, support stronger educational opportunities, and create a strong workforce for the future of the Wilson community.
The planning and evaluation process will focus on determining the most viable, sustainable plan for a program to help keep preteens and early teens on positive pathways. The proposed coordination of after-school programming will provide opportunities during out-of-school time with a focus on quality programs designed to enrich participants physically, emotionally and academically.
While most elements of the program will not be determined until after the study is completed and determined to be viable, Healthcare Foundation of Wilson invited several Wilson-based project partners to be part of the evaluation process and participate as primary resources. The City of Wilson plans to provide a central site for the program’s future home. Wilson Family YMCA plans to manage and help analyze the program by utilizing regional and national YMCA resources and expertise. Wilson County Schools plans to provide advice on program content as well as the space needed for the evaluation and coordination of the program.
“Through strong partnerships with so many organizations in Wilson, we have experienced the benefits of community partners working together for common goals,” said Paula Benson, executive director of Wilson 20/20. “Collaboration is particularly important in effective youth programming, and we feel certain the planning process will provide an opportunity for us to make sure we are planning the right opportunities, in the right way, at the right time for our youth.”
The future home, including location, building and space needs, will be part of the planning study. Many variables will go into the determination of the best location to serve the needs of our community’s middle school students.
Throughout the planning study process, which is expected to last about six months, the team will examine other successful programs throughout the country and will survey parents, teachers and students to determine program content interests. The team will also evaluate community resources and conduct a full financial analysis to ensure the program’s long-term sustainability.
About Healthcare Foundation of Wilson:
Healthcare Foundation of Wilson was established in 2014 to support the health care needs of the greater Wilson community. The foundation is committed to improving the health and wellness of all people by investing in strategic initiatives with measurable outcomes. To learn more, call 252-281-2105 or visit www.healthcarefoundationofwilson.org.