By John Disher—
Annual “100,000 Award” recognizes dedication to improving health and well-being
MUNCIE, Ind.— The Healthy Community Alliance of East Central Indiana (HCA) presented its “100,000 Award in Memory of Dr. George Branam” to Blackford County volunteer Fred Hoffman at its annual recognition meeting on June 13, 2022. The annual award is given to an individual or organization that supports the work of the HCA through outstanding leadership, innovative collaborations and unwavering dedication to improving the health and well-being of local communities.
The HCA “100,000 Award” recognizes the legacy of the late George Branam, MD, a steadfast champion of community health and wellness, and the number 100,000 represents Dr. Branam’s lifetime miles completed to train for and compete in sixty-six running marathons.
“This year’s award winner demonstrates how a single person, working in tandem with other community supporters, can pull together groups and resources to bring about positive, long-lasting change for a community,” noted John Disher, Director of Community Outreach for Indiana University Health’s East Central Region and Facilitator of the HCA. “As a collaborator, Fred never says no and instead focuses on who he can help and why it is important. Partners in the Healthy Community Alliance have greatly appreciated his willingness to work together on projects that promote healthy lifestyle activities for citizens of all ages.”
Mr. Hoffman played a significant role in the development and construction of the Blackford Greenway in Hartford City and continues to be involved in maintenance and improvements for the 2-mile scenic, paved pathway including a Pedicab program designed to provide rides for those unable to walk or bike independently. He also serves as the president of the Blackford Youth Soccer program which offers programming for youth from a five county area.
Hoffman’s award came at the end of a presentation featuring the work of Healthy Community Alliance Partners engaged in a wide variety of wellness efforts across east central Indiana. “I appreciate this award, and it is great to see so many people working on the same page to create positive change,” Hoffman said. “However, there’s still work to be done, so let’s keep moving.”
The Healthy Community Alliance was launched in 2016 as a collective impact model health coalition. Today, its 150 partner organizations in Delaware, Blackford and Jay counties seek to promote increased physical activity, improved nutrition and tobacco prevention and cessation within their own sphere of influence. The HCA Steering Committee meets each year to nominate and select an HCA Partner organization to receive the “100,000 Award.” Past recipients include the Purdue Extension in 2019, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in 2020 and the Healthy Lifestyle Center at Ball State University in 2021. Indiana University Health Ball Memorial Hospital serves as the backbone organization and provides resources to support the work of the HCA.
Visit www.healthycommunityalliance.org to learn more.
