The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines prevention as “the practice or act of stopping an event or problem before it occurs…taking proactive steps to reduce risks and avoid negative outcomes.”

Members of the Radford Youth-Adult Partnership (RYAP) hope to do just that, by taking on one of its community’s biggest health problems – heart-related illnesses.

Last year, RYAP combed through available community data to explore areas where their coalition could have a more significant impact on overall population health. Although the coalition has historically focused on issues like substance use among youth and supporting mental wellness, officials say the numbers associated with physical health were difficult to ignore.

In fact, data from the most recent regional health assessment survey conducted by Carilion Clinic showed that the City of Radford had the highest rates of adults (18 and over) with both physically and mentally unhealthy days – as well as those with obesity and also high blood pressure – when compared with surrounding jurisdictions in the New River Valley.

“I think some of us were genuinely surprised by the data,” explains Mike Wade, Chair of RYAP and a Prevention Supervisor with New River Valley Community Services (NRVCS). “The information was concerning enough that it really forced us to expand what we considered to be our core purpose and pushed us to pursue new opportunities.”

A key component in addressing these health concerns will be implementation of a new wellness initiative designed to encourage fourth grade students and their families to focus on increased physical activity, sufficient sleep, healthy eating habits, and reduced screen time. Organizers hope the project will lead to not only improved physical wellness, but strengthened family connections, and better mental and emotional health.

“Rural communities face unique challenges when it comes to health and wellness, which is why prevention and community partnerships are so important,” notes Amanda Hudgins, Director of Research and Innovation with the Radford University College of Nursing. “Bobcat Strong brings together schools, families, healthcare providers, community organizations, and Radford University faculty and students around a common goal: helping children build healthy habits that support lifelong physical, mental, and emotional well-being.”

“As a nurse practitioner and educator, I believe some of the most meaningful work we can do is help families build healthy routines before health problems develop,” Hudgins continues. “This program not only invests in the health of local children and families but also provides valuable real-world learning opportunities for health profession students as they work alongside the community to promote wellness and positive health outcomes.”

Known as “Bobcat Strong,” the voluntary program is being made available to fourth grade students at Belle Heth Elementary School. The project, which also recently received funding support through the Radford University King Foundation, is a partnership between Radford University, Radford City Public Schools, RYAP, and NRVCS.

The goal is to continue the program after the first-year pilot and track student data as they continue through fifth and sixth grades at Belle Heth. Organizers hope this project can be a sustainable model for improving health and strengthening communities across the region.

“We are excited to begin this partnership and bring Bobcat Strong to our students and families,” adds Dr. Melissa McDaniel, Assistant Superintendent for Radford City Public Schools. “By helping children develop healthy habits at an early age and encouraging families to participate alongside them, we hope to support lifelong wellness while strengthening the connection between our schools, families, and community.”  

An orientation session for interested families is scheduled for Thursday, September 24 at Belle Heth, beginning at 5:30 PM. More information about the program is available at www.nrvcs.org/bobcatstrong.