by Michelle | Nov 1, 2024 | Being Well, Featured, Move Well, Why I'm In
Why I’m “in” with Wellness
Michelle Jenck, Well-Being Director, Adventist Health Tillamook and Tillamook County Wellness Coordinator
Wishing for Wellness
I was recently asked how I came to be involved in wellness work. I’d like to say I was a lifelong fitness enthusiast but that isn’t true. As a child, I wanted to be physically fit and athletic but, alas, it was not in the cards for me. Severe asthma left me breathing into a brown paper bag on the sidelines and a debilitating eye condition called amblyopia, (my left eye is nearly blind), meant that, with no depth perception, I was to forever be, the “last one picked for the team.”
During middle school, I was too young to work, old enough to be home by myself but idle enough to have begun getting in trouble (serious, trouble). My saving grace was wandering into a YMCA to kill time after school. I started going to the weight room and pushing weights around. I had no idea what I was doing but kind people showed me what to do and what muscles I was working. It felt so good to feel a sense of control moving my body. I could push heavy things on purpose and muscles would form in places that were once squishy bits. It was like magic.
The best part was how weight training made me feel emotionally. I felt happier and gained a sense of control (something I have learned we need for good mental health, called a “locus of control.”) My self-esteem improved. I could set goals for myself and work to reach them, building successes I never believed possible for myself. I pursued weight training all through high school and was one of a few girls that joined the school’s newly formed competitive power lifting team.
My senior year in high school, I decided maybe I could push my body in other ways and began my first attempts at running. Initially, I “ran” 1-2 blocks and then sat on a curb breathing into a paper bag until my asthma attack subsided enough to slowly walk home. Tenacious and undaunted, I kept after my goal, gradually working my way up to running 2-3 miles at a time, and ultimately up to 6 miles over as many years. Running, even at a slow pace, helped me burn off stress and was a convenient way to get in a quick bout of exercise when I didn’t have time to hit the gym.
Working in Wellness
Through high school, college and into my young adult life, exercise was a staple. I tell people it should be like brushing your teeth; something you do every day without even thinking about it, because it is so ingrained in your routine.
As a stay-at-home mom, I was taking classes at the Tillamook YMCA, grateful to spend time among adults. One day, I made the fateful decision to ask Jeannie Christensen if there was ever going to be a step aerobics class offered at the Y. Like so many things in a small town, the answer was, “why don’t you start one?” Thus began a nearly 30-year career of teaching many different exercise disciplines.
I loved (and still love) teaching fitness classes. It is a way to give back, helping others experience their best life. Over all these years I have seen fitness change people from the inside out. That “locus of control,” it turns out, is an important component of life success and resilience. When we become aware of and gain control over moving our bodies, using our minds, it is very empowering.
The A-Ha Moment
By this time, our oldest son had been diagnosed with autism and our lives were changing dramatically. As we worked with our son to help him develop the ability to regulate his emotions and manage the sensory stimuli causing so much turmoil in his mind and body, I discovered magic could be found in movement. The most effective exercises involved movements that strengthened the parts of his brain involved in balance, spatial awareness and motor planning. How interesting, I thought. The same could be said for teaching a step class.
Teaching adults how to move, while helping our son re-wire his brain with movement, turned out to generate an “a-ha” moment of monumental proportions. As I began to understand how the brain is formed and how it changes with regular physical activity, I began to consider the larger implications of what I was learning. What could this mean for other children? For anyone who wanted to be more physically coordinated, better regulated, smarter and more successful?
Armed with this discovery, I decided to go back to school to pursue a Master of Education in Health & Kinesiology. Graduating in 2012, I used my degree to expand exercise programming at the YMCA, adding Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance, which over 300 older adults took in 2014. The following year, I was tapped to help lead a community effort to focus on reducing chronic disease in Tillamook County, which led to the formation of Tillamook County Wellness.
My Hopes for Wellness
I am very grateful for my experiences and the opportunity to influence health at both the individual and population level. As I enter my ninth year as coordinator for Tillamook County Wellness, I am looking ahead; or better yet, I am looking further “upstream.” So much of what contributes to wellness can be found between our ears. The mind. The brain. The connection between the brain and the body. This is where wellness starts. And it starts early in life – in the womb, in fact. Nearly 90% of a child’s brain is developed by the age of three and much of that development depends on movement.
My hopes for wellness are that we will begin to prioritize proper movement, nutrition and secure relationships during this critical window of childhood development. Do I have ideas for this? You bet I do and I can’t wait to keep working on wellness!
by Guest | Sep 16, 2024 | Being Well, Featured, Why I'm In
“WHY I’M IN …” An interview with Galena Flores, Program Assistant SNAP-Educator with Tillamook County Extension through Oregon State University and Tillamook Family YMCA
What drew you/your organization to partner with Tillamook County Wellness?
My first partnership with Tillamook County Wellness (TCW) was at the YMCA. Having lost my grandfather to diabetes, I became a Lifestyle coach teaching the National Diabetes Prevention Program, which was partnered with Tillamook County Wellness. They promote the program by helping recruit individuals at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The year-long program taught individuals small lifestyle changes that would have a lasting impact on their health, reducing their chances of getting Type 2 Diabetes.
As my role in the community has changed, I have continued to work with TCW through different avenues and organizations. During my internship at the Tillamook County Community Health Center, I worked with TCW on a Health Literacy campaign that was published on the Tillamook County Wellness Facebook page and other social media platforms.
More recently, with my new role at Tillamook Extension, I have worked closely with TWC on different committees and projects, one of which is the Treasure Your Wellness map currently underway. I am also working with the Access to Physical Activity Committee as we work toward promoting the Salmonberry Trail and events like the bike rodeo and the Four Seasons of Forging events that will be going on in our community throughout the year.
What, if any, changes have you seen come about as a result of this work?
I have seen the prevalence of type 2 diabetes go down in Tillamook, along with the several established walking groups that are throughout the county and much more.
What have you learned from being involved in this work?
This community can do some very meaningful things by bringing different organizations together. I also learned about the Salmonberry Trail, which would be fantastic for our community, along with various other things.
What are your hopes for this work as it relates to you/your organization?
My hope is to empower our community to take control of their health. Through my work with Tillamook Extension, I am providing individuals with the resources and knowledge to be able to make informed decisions about their health. I hope to be able to impact my community with healthy recipes and knowledge about specific ingredients that they might not be sure about. I hope to be able to provide information to people about ways to be more physically active and feel more confident in the kitchen when preparing meals for themselves and their families. I hope to be able to encourage our low-income and underserved population on different ways to take care of themselves, which could be done by teaching them how to prepare nutritious meals with the items they are receiving at the food banks or educating them on different resources there are throughout the community they might not be aware of.
What are your hopes for this work as it relates to changing community health in Tillamook County?
I hope that people will be able to access the resources that my organization and TWC provide. I hope to truly impact our community in a positive way and inspire people to take care of themselves and, if possible, others.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
TCW truly has its community’s best interest at heart, and many Tillamook County residents do not realize how much they are really affected by this organization. The work that is being done every day to improve this community’s health through different organizations is astonishing. I feel it is a beautiful thing, and we are so lucky to have such a grand coalition in our community.
Other wellness questions? Email us at info@tillamookcountywellness.org. For more local health and wellness information, visit www.tillamookcountywellness.org or follow Tillamook County Wellness on Facebook and Instagram.
by Guest | Apr 24, 2024 | Being Well, Featured, Uncategorized, Why I'm In
“WHY I’M IN …” An interview with Emery Edwards, AmeriCorps, VISTA
What drew you/your organization to partner with Tillamook County Wellness?
I’ll be honest, I started working with TCW because it was something required of my position as an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer. I came to Tillamook, though, because I was in search of something more fulfilling, authentic, and close to nature than what I had built in Seattle. Since the first day I learned about TCW I was inspired by the community-driven initiatives to make Tillamook a better place to work, live, and be. I will continue my work with TCW because I am inspired by the passion exhibited by its members towards the never-ending work of improving this county. I have found that TCW embodies what I was searching for when I moved to Tillamook- it is authentic, innovative, fulfilling, and emphasizes genuine relationships and community action.
What, if any, changes have you seen come about as a result of this work?
I can see how TCW brings organizations and people together for initiatives to improve the county. Being behind the scenes and involved in several committees I have the unique opportunity to see so much of what TCW is doing! The collaborative nature of the committees creates buy-in throughout organizations in the county and provides a platform for the exchange of ideas all towards the betterment of our community. I specifically see how a lot of what TCW does is directly informed by data collected about the greatest needs of the county, specifically for vulnerable populations. I see access to care and access to physical activity being increased for all of Tillamook County, but particularly emphasized for historically underserved populations. This is critical work that is not being done everywhere and I’m so happy that TCW is taking that initiative.
What have you learned from being involved in this work?
Gosh, I have learned so much about what it means to bring about community action. This community has so many wonderful members who are passionate about improving the livelihoods of all county residents which has restored some of my faith in humanity. I learn so much from my work with TCW almost every day, but I think the biggest thing I’ve learned is that community action like TCW is even possible!
What are your hopes for this work as it relates to you/your organization?
I hope that this work can continue to grow and expand to include more representatives of the community. I really hope to see more community members, retirees, and other people looking to use their time, energy, and skills to better their community through TCW. I hope that this will cultivate a sense of ownership for Tillamook County residents. In my experience, if you yourself work on something you feel a sense of ownership over it. And that’s really important for this program’s sustainability. The more people come together wanting to improve their community through TCW the more positive impact we’ll be able to make
What are your hopes for this work as it relates to changing community health in Tillamook County.
Moving to Tillamook County has changed my life, and I know it can change so many others. I really hope that this work will improve access to a happy and healthy life for all. It’s really hard to not have any healthy habits, nutritional knowledge, or a healthy relationship with your body. I believe that TCW is providing access to healthy choices we can make for ourselves. This is essential work to improving community health because when you feel like you’re on your own with your health, it’s really isolating and it can feel like you have to reinvent the wheel. TCW is changing Tillamook County for the better, and my biggest hope is that we continue to receive support from the community we serve.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I would just like to add that moving to Tillamook County has changed my life for the better! I’ve been able to build a wonderful community of authentic, caring, amazing people who truly care about this community. Tillamook County has its flaws but it is such a special place to me and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to serve here. I am so looking forward to seeing what amazing things we can accomplish with community action! And, a special thank-you to Michelle Jenck, the Tillamook County Wellness Coordinator. Without her, so much of this work would not be possible!
by Guest | Feb 20, 2024 | Being Well, Eat Well, Featured, Uncategorized, Why I'm In, Work Well
“WHY I’M IN …” An interview with Mari Tasche, Oregon Health & Science University
What drew you/your organization to partner with Tillamook County Wellness?
When first introduced to Tillamook County Wellness, I was inspired by the work of the committees and felt that TCW aligned with my passion for improving the wellness and quality of life of others, particularly those made vulnerable by current systems. I have always been actively involved in my community, whether coaching youth soccer or coordinating a community-wide couch to 5k running group. As an exercise physiologist looking to transition into public health and plant my roots on the north coast, TCW provided a great opportunity to understand the region’s needs and get involved in efforts to address community health.
What, if any, changes have you seen come about as a result of this work?
Improving the health and wellness of a county is challenging work and truly takes a village. TCW is a unifying force that brings people and organizations together to share knowledge, leverage resources, and provide support. This strengthens our connections, creates unity, and fosters collective progress for the betterment of our community. I have seen many organizations coordinate and collaborate on projects, programs, and initiatives they might not have otherwise pursued together. This coalition has also taken ownership of the community health needs assessment and improvement plan to address the region’s top health and social needs. Efforts include evaluating and refocusing the work of committees, pursuing or supporting grants, establishing or strengthening partnerships, and broadening community outreach and engagement.
What have you learned from being involved in this work?
I have learned that opportunities are endless if you make the effort to reach out. Many people want to see this county thrive and want to contribute their part to make that happen. It is inspiring and fuels my optimism for this work. I have also learned that this work is like climbing a mountain with no top. It’s endless, but if you enjoy what you are doing, it doesn’t feel like a daunting task- and don’t forget to celebrate the small steps!
What are your hopes for this work as it relates to you/your organization?
My role has continued to evolve since joining a few years ago, and I strive to find my niche and how to best contribute my time and resources to TCW. As I wrap up my master’s degree in public health this fall, I am looking to align my final projects with TCW initiatives and develop relevant content and materials to drive this work forward. As a regionally based employee with the Oregon Rural Practice-based Research Network at OHSU, I aim to pursue future opportunities for cross-over and collaboration.
What are your hopes for this work as it relates to changing community health in Tillamook County.
Changing community health takes a multifaceted and dynamic approach. I hope that TCW continues to address this challenge holistically by strengthening a diverse network with a unified message, comprehensive strategy, and county-wide framework that can meet the needs of every individual and help them live their best, healthy lives.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I appreciate being a part of this coalition and look forward to what we can accomplish in the coming years.
For more local health and wellness information, visit www.tillamookcountywellness.org or follow Tillamook County Wellness on Facebook and Instagram.
by Guest | Dec 7, 2023 | Being Well, Featured, Why I'm In
Why are you “IN”?
The Tillamook County Wellness “Why I’m In” interview series highlights our community partners and what has inspired and motivated them to work toward the common goal of improving community health.
“WHY I’M IN …” An interview with Janeane Krongos, Prevention Specialist, Tillamook Family Counseling Center (TFCC). Janeane is the co-chair of the health and promotion committee.
What drew you/your organization to partner with Tillamook County Wellness?
Janeane: Being part of the Tillamook County Wellness (TCW) Health Promotion committee was a natural choice for me, because TCW and I have a shared goal of improving community health through increasing protective factors. Protective factors are characteristics or attributes that can help to lower the risk of negative health outcomes such as diabetes, substance misuse, underage substance use prevention, problem gambling, and suicide prevention. Examples of protective factors include access to basic needs (food and housing), social connections, connection to the community, access to resources, access to healthcare, coping skills, and problem-solving skills.
What, if any, changes have you seen come about as a result of this work?
Janeane: One change that I have seen since I have been part of this group is an increased focus on prevention topics (substance misuse, problem gambling prevention, and suicide prevention) and mental health in TCW content on the website and social media. I think this is a beneficial change and I hope to see more content on these topics.
What have you learned from being involved in this work?
Janeane: I am relatively new to the Tillamook County, I moved to the community in March 2020. Being part of the committee has allowed me to learn about Tillamook County directly from committee members who know the area well. In the monthly meetings I had opportunities to meet with people who are active in the community. Additionally, I have learned about local places that I can go to exercise (local parks, hiking trails, beaches, & facilities), local organizations, community resources, and community events.
What are your hopes for this work as it relates to you/your organization?
Janeane: The organization that I work for (Tillamook Family Counseling Center) has played an active role in TCW since its inception. I hope that they will continue to play an active part in TCW. As for myself, I hope that I will continue to play an active role in TCW. I am the current co-chair of the Health Promotion committee. I enjoy having this role. I respect the members of the group, enjoy the meetings, and enjoy having opportunities to share prevention messaging and share helpful resources in TCW content. Since I have been part of this committee, I have had opportunities to write blogs on a variety of topics including problem gambling prevention, safe medication practices, suicide prevention, and mental health.
What are your hopes for this work as it relates to changing community health in Tillamook County.
Janeane: One hope that I have for the future, is for more community members to get involved in TCW. Currently TCW has around 80 partners who volunteer their time and skills and around 50 community partner organizations who allow staff to attend the meetings. A person can get in TCW in whatever way that works best for them. Examples of ways a person can get involved include: joining a TCW committee(Health Promotion, Access to Care, Access to Physical Activity, and Workplace Wellness), participating in TCW campaigns(This Way to Well-Being), attending TCW programs(walking groups, workshops, or events), sharing your ideas by filling out surveys, following TCW on social media, engaging with TCW social media post (like, share, and comment), subscribing to the TCW newsletter, or making a donation to TCW on the website.
What are your hopes for this work as it relates to changing community health in Tillamook County?
I hope that TCW continues to have strong partner support and continues to generate relevant and trusted health inspiration content.
Other wellness questions? Email us at info@tillamookcountywellness.org. For more local health and wellness information, visit www.tillamookcountywellness.org or follow Tillamook County Wellness on Facebook and Instagram.
by Guest | Oct 5, 2022 | Why I'm In
What drew you to partner with Tillamook County Wellness?
I worked in the legal profession where I saw so many situations that called for vibrant and accessible community health services. After I retired, I volunteered a lot in the community, focusing on improving connections and services with under-served populations. I’ve mentored a number of young people in prison and others in need of emotional support. Our community is in great need of services that connect people with each other on a personal heart-to-heart level and with essential resources. One day I volunteered at the Homeless Connect event, and saw firsthand the stark disparity of basic health services and human connection, and the need to inform the community on our many social and health needs. I’m a writer, so I have tried to increase that awareness through the telling and sharing of personal stories and available resources. The Wellness program is “boots on the ground” and focuses on actions that are evidence-based and effective.
What, if any, changes have you seen come about as a result of this work?
There’s an increased awareness of individual education and responsibility, of taking small yet significant steps to change lifestyles, to be pro-active, and to work collectively for social change on a community level. I’m interested in not just physical health changes, but also mental health action steps and services, serving everyone. “It takes a village” has become an accepted attitude in the community. The Wellness project has brought about an effective gathering of like-minded people who know how to get things accomplished.
What have you learned from being involved in this work?
As Margaret Mead said, “Never underestimate the power of a small group of committed people to change the world. In fact, it is the only thing that ever has.”
What are your hopes for this work as it relates to you?
I need to understand more about the role of trauma in our lives and in our work. Our individual and collective response to emotional and physical trauma is an overarching force in our lives, and we all need healthy tools to respond and heal. We need more trauma-informed care. Our schools are working on that, and we need to follow their lead.
What are your hopes for this work as it relates to changing community health in Tillamook County?
I’ve been empowered and I realize that a small group of impassioned, committed people can change community attitudes and provide a collective and effective response to long term problems. Most solutions are found in small communities, and we can effectively work together to make a difference. The Wellness group doesn’t take “no” for an answer, and keeps exploring and implementing innovative, creative solutions. This work gives me hope and is an empowering positive force in our community.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Each member of the community matters. We each have something to offer. There is an enormous need for mentorship, and we underestimate the power of empathic, one-on-one relationships to change and heal lives.
