by Pam Baker, Melanie Ebbing, Amy Leisenfelder, Eric Sharer, Michelle Singh
Wildwood HEAL Committee Co-Chairs

Helping people to lead fulfilling lives is at the core of Wildwood’s mission. Through 50+ years of experience, we have found that people experience the greatest fulfillment when practicing healthy eating habits and increasing physical activity. In order to improve nutritional habits and increase physical activity of students, Wildwood started Project HEAL (Healthy Eating, Active Living) – an initiative focused on promoting an agency-wide culture of change for both staff and people supported by Wildwood. The goal of HEAL is to increase skills, knowledge, and positive behaviors. 

The holidays are a time of reflection and a time to express gratitude for all that we have. This year, Wildwood is more thankful than ever for its dedicated staff; the agency recognizes all the incredible work that is being done each and every day. The HEAL Committee hopes to relieve some of the anxiety and stress that comes along with planning and financing holiday meals through its “Giving Thanks” project.

The HEAL Committee at Wildwood is “Giving Thanks” by providing boxes of healthy holiday provisions to staff members in time for Thanksgiving. This project was started as a way to show appreciation to staff and support them in such a challenging year. The box will also include healthy recipes compiled by the Wildwood HEAL Committee.

For those interested in viewing the HEAL Recipe Book, a copy has been shared online at https://bit.ly/3eYMFny. For more information on the “Giving Thanks” project, please contact Amy Leisenfelder at 518-640-3423. We hope you have a happy and healthy holiday season.