Charles City Blue Zone Project!

 What if you knew that you could add healthy and happy years to your life?  Would you be interested? There are places in the world where people live healthy, happy lives well into the 90’s or even 100’s.  These longevity hotspots are called Blue Zones.  By making changes to a community’s physical, social and policy environment, it becomes easier for citizens to adopt the lifestyle habits of the Blue Zones philosophy.

The Blue Zones Project is part of a statewide effort Governor Terry Branstad announced this past summer with a goal of making Iowa the healthiest state by 2016.  Currently we are ranked as the 19^th healthiest state in the nation.

Ten Iowa communities that demonstrate the greatest passion, interest and ability to bring their community together will receive direct access to national experts and financial help in transforming their city into a Blue Zones community.  In November, Charles City was one of 58 communities selected to apply for one of those 10 spots! 

Our application has been submitted and accepted! But that is only one part of the selection process.  Another factor that will be looked at is community motivation.  Our city, business, and civic leaders need to be on board!  Their commitment will be measured by both signed commitment letters and observed support during the finalist site visits. 

Another major factor is citizen commitment.  This commitment will be measured by the percent of citizens who sign up at www.bluezonesproject.com, or by texting BZP to 772937.  You will enter your name, email address, and zip code.  By registering, you are pledging your support of the project and lobbying for Charles City to be one of the chosen! Charles City is currently in 24^th place on the citizen commitment scoreboard.  Go online or text your support today!

Another way you can show your support is to volunteer for blue zone initiatives.  Charles City already has an awesome network of volunteers and community organizers, as shown by the many other community initiatives we have taken such as the Main Street project, the mentoring and foster grandparent programs, and our health and fitness programs offered throughout the year.    If you would like to help with the Charles City Blue Zone project, please call Kim Carmen at 228-1726, or Keanna Smith at 228-4234.

Representatives from the Blue Zone Project will be at the boys and girls basketball game on January 14^th to answer questions about the project and help people register their support.  Also an informational meeting will be held on Thursday, February 2nd from 5:30-6:30pm at the NIACC center for the whole community to come and ask questions, and learn more about what this means for Charles City!