CHANGE THE FUTURE WV COMES TO COMMUNITY - New Playground At Wayne Underwood Field

(07/26/2011)

Grantsville, WV - Change the Future WV is pleased to announce the new playground equipment purchased for Wayne Underwood Field is now installed and open to the public. Bring the kids out to play while you walk around the track. The field provides a safe and attractive environment for folks of all ages.

The goal of Change the Future WV is to establish policies, systems and environments that create healthier communities in our state. This program is helping Mid-Ohio Valley communities lead the nation in innovative and collaborative healthy community design.

The prevalence of obesity, physical inactivity and many other serious health problems are on the rise. According to the latest studies, three out of five kids today do not get the recommended amount of physical exercise. In addition, studies show that rates of childhood obesity have tripled in the past thirty years. "It's our hope that programs like Change the Future WV will help make healthy choices the easy choices," said Janet Heiney, Calhoun County Wellness Coordinator.

Change the Future WV is hoping to raise awareness about the serious health problems our state faces and how to help create healthier environments in our community. For example, the program is working to increase access to fresh fruits and vegetables with the opening of the newly established Grantsville Farmer's Market, open every Friday from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., at the Wayne Underwood Field.

We are also fortunate to have the Calhoun Farmer's Market located in Chloe, open every Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. In addition, the program is working to improve access to walking trails and other areas for members of the community to exercise. The program has purchased playground equipment for the Calhoun County Park and the Upper West Fork Park.

For more information about promoting physical exercise or Farmer's Markets, contact Janet Heiney at the Calhoun Health Department, 304-354-6101.