Did you know that there is a movement right here, in our hometown that wants to help us become the healthiest community in the nation? You probably have heard of it and you probably have seen them out in the community at an event. They are Healthy West Orange!
As I have been sharing their events on the Macaroni KID Winter Garden-Ocoee site and newsletter, I wanted to find out more about them so that you, too, could know more about them. Read on to find out the who, what, and why of Healthy West Orange!
 |
How did Healthy West Orange come to be?
Healthy West Orange was established in 2016, when community leaders, municipalities, residents, and stakeholders came together to envision how to build the healthiest community in the nation. What started as a local movement encouraging healthy and positive behaviors has evolved into a community force for well-being - bringing information, tools, and connections to empower residents.
Why do you have the goal of creating the healthiest community in the nation?
We know, it’s a BIG goal! We want to empower residents to live longer, healthier lives. We’re here to help local residents eat well, stay active, and enjoy life. But we can’t do it alone! Our team members aren’t healthcare experts, which is why we partner with many health and wellness organizations and businesses in West Orange who help us educate and inspire residents.
 |
When you’re described as a non-profit, how do you keep the lights running?
Healthy West Orange is powered by the Foundation for a Healthier West Orange. They make all our work possible. The Foundation for a Healthier West Orange invests in and champions initiatives that support the health and well-being of our community.
How do you come up with your event ideas?
We want to provide fun ways for residents to get active, eat healthy, and prioritize wellness, which is where our signature challenges and events come into play! Our events are free, open to all ages and abilities, non-competitive, and encourage participants to get healthy in ways they enjoy! For example, every September we host our Healthy Selfie 5K Your Way, when folks can complete a 5K on their own time, any way they like. They can walk, run, bike, paddle, or even skateboard their way to 3.1 miles! We always have an in-person community walk/run too, so participants can complete the challenge with an awesome, supportive, and encouraging group! Check out our community events calendar on our website HealthyWestOrange.org!
 |
What can we do as a community to help each other?
While we need our local health and wellness experts to help our community be healthier, we also need YOU! Start with small actions. Invite your friend for a walk or bike ride, cook a healthy meal with your family, encourage your loved ones to keep up with their doctor appointments. The healthiest community begins with each one of us, and we are stronger together!
What resources are available that we might not know about?
Navigating local health and wellness resources and services can be confusing. That’s why HUBB by Healthy West Orange is so important. It’s an online and in-person database where individuals can search for free/reduced cost healthcare, caregiving, food assistance, housing programs, recreational activities, and much more. It’s free, anonymous, and available online 24/7. Find the right service for you and your loved ones HERE!
 |
How would a group partner with you for an event?
We love championing local health and wellness businesses and organizations! That’s why we created Carrot, a free app with healthy deals for local fitness, nutrition, and wellness services. When a business or organization becomes a “Carrot Champion”, folks can use their coupons to try a new healthy restaurant, join a free yoga class, or even take a CPR course. Once the business is on board as a Carrot Champion, they can then join us at our signature festivals and events throughout the year!
Westly is your mascot - how was he named and what is his role?
Westly was named after our home – West Orange! He is our community cheerleader, podcast host, and star of the Healthy West Orange Movement! You may have seen him around the community, as it’s hard to miss his bright orange, stick figure self! He’s on a healthy journey and has both struggles and accomplishments, just like we all do.
 |
What are ideas you have for families to get active at home? In their neighborhood/community? With HWO?
Getting active at home can be as simple as starting a garden, having a pajama dance party, or even running through the sprinkler in the backyard! We’re here to remind people that all movement matters, because you’re lapping everyone on the couch! Now don’t get us wrong, relaxing is SO important too. But sometimes working out can seem hard, complicated, and expensive. Again, start small! Create a chalk obstacle course with the neighborhood families, volunteer to clean up litter, or complete a Healthy West Orange 5K around your neighborhood!
What else should we know about you that we may not know about?
Our website and social media pages have TONS of local activities, tasty recipes, workout videos, health tips, and more that help make healthy living simple and fun! In our growing community, there’s always new ways to get involved, learn more, and meet new friends! Speaking of making new friends, check out our Facebook Group: HWO Wellness Squad. You’ll find inspiration, motivation, and a group of people to share your challenges, successes, tips, and questions about all things health and wellbeing!
Healthy West Orange has their own website at HealthyWestOrange.org and YouTube channel, Podcast, and is on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. Follow them at @HealthyWestOrange on each platform to find out more about their events that take place all throughout the year.
Thank you, Healthy West Orange, for your time to this article, and even more so, for all you do for our community!
Know of another organization that is helping our community? I would love to get in touch! Please email at at MichelleHolly@MacaroniKID.com
Click here to subscribe to the Macaroni KID Winter Garden-Ocoee free weekly newsletter, filled with local events, crafts and recipes!
