In Sunday's Parade magazine appeared an article, "How Healthy Is Your State?" While it talks about the differences between states, what I found most interesting was the following quote:"Health is not just what happens in your doctor's office . . . It's happens in the community." It goes on to state, "While you're at it, think about what you can do to create a real sense of community, where people care for each other . . . Talk to your community leaders . . . Campaign for safer neighborhoods where kids can become physically active."
Of course, I would add: Work together to create safe and healthy activities for our youth. Provide them with opportunities to meaningfully contribute to our community and to be recognized for those contributions. These are the types of community activities that can help reduce underage drinking rates and, therefore, improve the health of our youth, our families, and our neighborhoods.
