STAMFORD, Conn., May 13, 2015 — Stamford’s Vita Health & Wellness District has been selected to receive an Action Award from the County Health Rankings & Roadmaps Program, a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) program. Stamford is one of 20 communities nationwide to receive a Roadmaps to Health Action Award this year.
The Action Awards are designed to strengthen the capacity of communities to improve health. The Roadmaps to Health Action Award is part of the County Health Rankings & Roadmaps program, a collaboration between the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute. The Rankings show communities where they can improve, and the Roadmaps show communities how to take action to expand opportunities for healthier choices.
Stamford’s Vita Health & Wellness District, a partnership of Charter Oak Communities (COC), Stamford Hospital and the City of Stamford, was selected as an award recipient because of its engagement with the County Health Ranking & Roadmaps programs and demonstrated efforts to improve the health of COC residents and the Stamford community at large.
The Vita Health & Wellness District will receive:
- Direct, customized support from a Roadmaps to Health community coach for up to one year to support Vita’s journey to build a “culture of health”
- The opportunity to network and engage with thought leaders, national organizations and other communities, including consultation referrals and participation in an in-person convening
- Up to $10,000 funding for related program initiatives.
“With this support, COC and its community partners will continue strengthening the Vita Health & Wellness initiative, building a healthier community comprising science-based objectives, robust provider support, and strong partnerships,” said Vincent J. Tufo, executive director and CEO, Charter Oak Communities. “This Action Award recognizes the significant progress and milestones COC and its partners have already achieved, and offers an enhanced roadmap for our continuing evolution.”
Tufo said the health and wellness initiatives underway include agencies participating in Vita’s Stamford Community Collaborative — several local organizations vested in community health and wellness — and other organizations with an interest in improving overall health and wellness and equitable access to services and improved opportunities for residents.
The County Health Rankings & Roadmaps program also includes the RWJF Culture of Health Prize which honors communities that are making great strides in their journey to build a Culture of Health. The 2015 Prize winners will be announced on October 28, 2015.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Please contact Nicole Wise (nwise@balancehealthcontent.com; 203-595-8085).