Blue Zones: What is it and how can my pledge help?

Community members and Blue Zone Project Team members gathered at the Musco Technology Center on the William Penn University campus.

Oskaloosa, Iowa – Oskaloosa has recently been selected as one of the 12 finalists to be a Blue Zones demonstration site. A Blue Zones community means that we are listed among the top healthiest places to live in the nation! The Mahaska Wellness Coalition eagerly awaits the announcement, scheduled for January 2013, of the final six cities of our size to be identified as Blue Zone Projects demonstration sites. We are halfway there and you can help.

During our waiting process, why not sign the pledge and engage in suggested activities, some of which you are already doing. It is so easy and the more community members that pledge, the better our chances of being one of the selected six communities. Simply visit www.bluezonesproject.com, log in with your email address. If you have registered for some of the health initiatives in the past, this is new and will be counted toward our Blue Zones efforts so please pledge again. If you have forgotten your password, they will help you reset it. If you are new to the pledge, hit the “Join & Pledge Today” button and follow the directions there. It is important that you choose and complete a few actions such as volunteering, buying or cleaning up your bicycle, walking your dog and so many other easy, fun choices!

“What a prestigious honor for Oskaloosa to be named one of the healthiest, happiest places for your children and family to grow!” states Dawn Collins, director of the Mahaska YMCA. Discover ways you can improve your life and community. Join the Movement–start making Oskaloosa a happier, healthier place to live, work and play! For more information contact Deb Bruxvoort at the Oskaloosa Area Chamber, 641.672.2591 or Dawn Collins at the YMCA, 641.673.8411.