Calvary Community Outreach Network

Programs: The calvary community wellness center provided structured fitness opportunities and information to youth and families living and working in urban kansas city. The 10,000 square foot warehouse located at 3002 holmes street has been converted into a state of the art fitness center to serve youth and families in the target group. Health screenings, nutrition demonstrations and fitness classes are among the offerings. The health of people living in kansas city is very important to the calvary community outreach network (ccon). Over the years, we have learned that many of the diseases that people suffer with could be prevented or controlled. The conclusion is obvious - it makes more sense to keep people healthy than wait until they are broken and need medical attention. We have created a safe, friendly, culturally diverse gathering place where individuals from all walks of life can establish individual fitness goals, receive critical health information and start on a journey of wellness. We have initiated a comprehensive approach to good health through a combination of assessment, education, motivation, and re-evaluation. This approach includes assisting people as they manage lifestyle, risk identification, fitness enhancement, health education, and the resources necessary to improve our members' health through long-term, personal action plans.

helping youth plan for excellence (hype) is a media leadership group that creates a positive setting for urban youth ages 10 thru 21. The project utilizes student involvement in media as the vehicle to establish ongoing youth development activities. Since 1999, hype members have produced quality programming giving accurate, culturally sensitive hiv/aids and substance abuse prevention information to their peers in an up-beat entertaining way. Hype supports youngsters as they navigate the troublesome teen years. Hype enlists them to become a part of the solution through the performing arts. Students team up with positive adult leaders to write, choreograph and perform stage plays directed at their peers. Students learn the basics of video work including camera operation, editing and audio as well as interviewing techniques. Students reached over 2,000 youth in their performance at kauffman performing arts center.

education and awareness about hiv/aids prevention is observed annually the first full week in march. Organized forums and events are used to bring about positive change in the african american community. Area african american churches are mobilized to educate the community on the risk factors associated with hiv/aids and reduce the spread of the disease. Ccon is a certified partner of the balm of gilead and is the convener and fiscal agent for the local observance. Hiv prevention & compassion tool kits are disseminated to congregants and affiliates. Ccon staff and volunteers provide technical assistance and resources including testing.

other major accomplishments include 1) kc faith initiative, a pilot intervention study to increase: a) knowledge of preventing and living with diabetes, heart disease, and stroke; b) excercise and healthy eating; and c) weight loss. 2) kc fun & fitness day presents a carnival-like atmosphere for youth and families filled with sports and athletic events combined with numerous health screenings, healthy food samples, group and individual fitness demonstrations, double-dutch basketball, local music groups and fun family activities. . The event is also a launching point for a series of efforts designed to build the capacity of the african american faith communities to provide ongoing health related programs and services. Organizations, whose goal is to develop, deliver, and support effective health programs for faith and community-based organizations.