In November the greater La Crosse community nominated youth, individuals and organizations to be recognized as Healthy Living Heroes for their efforts to make La Crosse County a healthier place to live, work and play. The review committee selected the following recipients:

Youth Award Winner: Youth-iFeed 7 Area Interact Clubs (Aquinas High School, Caledonia High School, La Crosse Central High School, Holmen High School, La Crosse Logan High School, Onalaska High School and West Salem High School) The iFeed service program was selected for creating leaders within the teen community.  The program provided education to parents as well as elementary aged children regarding hunger issues. iFeed efforts impacted hunger on a global and local level. 

Individual Award Winner: Jackie Czeiska Jackie was selected for her willingness to make nutrition and physical an all-encompassing lifestyle in and out of the classroom.  Jackie leads by example and is a great role model for students.  Jackie’s creative education connects the dots for students as well as her innovative delivery of programs that advocate health and wellness.

Organization Honorable Mention: The Parenting Place The Parenting Place is committed to supporting breastfeeding and its positive impact on the health of babies.  They have created partnerships with the Western WI Breastfeeding Coalition, day care centers, parents, grandparents, and care givers.  The Parenting Place extends their educational strategies by offering additional workshops to support healthy living for parents, caregivers, and providers.

Organization Award Winner: Family & Children’s Center (FCC) The FCC shows a commitment to wellness of their patrons as well as employees.  The FCC integrates healthy lifestyles into their programming with the individuals they serve.  The FCC provides a safe outlet for physical activity by offering YMCA passes and taking their youth to the YMCA.  

Healthy Living Heroes were awarded at the annual January meeting with plaques and a hot, healthy breakfast on January 13 at the Myrick Park Center. Formed in 2009, the Healthy Living Collaboration has taken the charge to bring together groups working to promote nutrition, physical activity, and tobacco-free living, three behaviors that are major contributors to chronic disease and premature deaths among La Crosse County residents.