Improving Health Among Residents in Colorado’s San Luis Valley
As a result of community needs assessments, researchers are working with
schools, families, and community organizations in the San Luis Valley to
increase physical activity, promote diets rich in fruits and vegetables, and
enhance support for healthy behaviors. Several programs were initiated for
residents, many of whom are medically underserved and have low income. A
curriculum for building knowledge and skills about healthy nutrition and
physical activity was incorporated into regular classroom subjects, was
tested among 2nd–4th graders, and was shown to improve students’ skills and
behaviors in both diet and physical activity. Some elementary school
teachers continue to use the program and are integrating the curriculum into
additional subjects. During a family-visit program, developed for the
parents and siblings of the 2nd graders, an advisor provides counseling and
motivation to help the families set and act on nutrition and physical
activity goals. A large trial of this program was adapted for families of
persons with diabetes and is now underway. The center also worked with local
community partners to develop sustainable programs, such as employee
exercise programs at the work site, a mobile kitchen for cooking
demonstrations and nutrition classes, and an indoor walking program.
Volunteers and organizations continue to conduct these programs.
Get Email Updates
