As the recipient of a Thriving Communities Initiative grant, Broomfield Health and Human Services is the lead agency in the city for activities that call for collaboration between Broomfield schools, businesses, and interested citizens to identify strengths and weaknesses with regard to healthy eating and active living.  

Partners in the initiative are Kaiser Permanente, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, America on the Move, and Kroenke Sports. In addition, Broomfield City Council has identified a healthy Broomfield as one of its main priorities for 2006. The Thriving Communities Initiative is a collaborative effort.  

The program strives to promote healthy eating and active living within Broomfield.  HHS staff is currently surveying local businesses about activities that promote healthy eating and active lifestyles as part of corporate wellness.  In addition to businesses, the same type information is coming from schools and through focus groups within the Broomfield community.   

As part of this endeavor, hundreds of pedometers have already been given to Broomfield residents to encourage physical activity and improved health.  The focus of the initiative is to bring lasting, positive change and improved health to all who live, work and play in Broomfield. This initiative provides an opportunity to foster true community change centered on healthy eating and active living. 

To obtain information about the Thriving Communities Initiative or to volunteer as part of the wellness collaborative group, contact Mary Thatcher at 720-887-2213 or e-mail her at mthatcher@broomfield.org.