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 | Feb 12, 2024 | Being Well, Featured, Uncategorized, Work Well
By Guest Author: Emery Edwards
I’m a perfectionist. I always have been, and I probably always will be in some capacity. So, my health improvement journey has been a struggle. Somewhere in the 21 years before I started trying to change my life, I had gotten this idea that if I couldn’t do it perfectly the first time, I couldn’t do it at all. I’m sure some of you have felt similarly, especially when it comes to your health. There have been countless times where I’d stuck to my goals for a week or two, but I am inevitably confronted with a birthday party, a night out, or anything that might challenge your newly formed habits. I’ve always felt it’s a zero-sum game- I default on my healthy habits one time, and my progress is null, and I might as well give up. Many of us who have embarked on the journey of improving holistic health have experienced this, and it’s okay. What will be more damaging than one day, one week, or one month of falling back, is if you believe that the progress you’ve made up until that point means nothing because you weren’t perfect.
This is where progress over perfection comes in. Recognizing that you are making progress, but you’re not perfect, is the way I’ve been able to transform my habits over the last 6 months. Instead of chastising myself for not exercising one day or eating something that does not serve my body, I recognize that overcoming these habits is a longer journey than I had been led to believe. Crash diets, unrealistic societal expectations, ‘lose weight quick’ schemes, and the like have warped my thoughts about health for a decade, and I know I’m not alone in this. If it has been instilled in you for so long, it will inevitably take more than a couple months to fully change your mindset. Giving yourself grace in this journey of feeling better is more important than absolute perfection. But you must want to feel better to make these changes sustainable.
It takes dedication to make that progress and change your lifestyle. I started with upping my fiber and protein intake through whole foods and reduced the simple carbohydrates and sugars in my diet. It took me mere weeks to feel more present in my body, have more energy, and improve my sleep quality. It took me months, however, to make these practices a daily habit. Instead of giving up when I gave in to the residual cravings, I would wake up the next day and continue with the goals I had been working towards. My world does not stop when I eat a chicken strip, and I promise that yours doesn’t either. Maybe pair that chicken strip with some roasted vegetables like brussels sprouts, broccoli, or a simple garden salad to make it more nutritious. It’s all about adding what you need to satisfy the craving in a healthier way, and after you eat it, move on to meeting your goals. The name of the game is progress, not perfection. But when I tell you, I went from needing a nap in the middle of the day to function to having the energy to take me through the entire day without a yawn, I am telling you the truth.
I am only 6 months into my progress over perfection journey, so I’m no expert. But what I will say is I have never in my life felt as good as I do today, and every day gets even better. I started with my eating because I had no energy to introduce exercise into my routine, now I have too much energy to sleep if I don’t exercise. It’s a beautiful problem to have. I would not have gotten this far if I had given up the first time that I ate something I told myself I wouldn’t. Which probably happened within a week of starting the journey if I’m honest. The name of this game is grace- give it to yourself, to others, and remember that it’s all about your overall progress, not being perfect.
For more local health and wellness information, visit www.tillamookcountywellness.org or follow Tillamook County Wellness on Facebook and Instagram.
by Guest | Nov 30, 2023 | Being Well, Featured, Uncategorized
The seventh annual Tillamook County Giving Guide was delivered to every mailbox in Tillamook County the week of November 20th. The Guide features profiles of over 45 nonprofits and includes a list of over 120 organizations that are doing amazing charitable work in our communities. The Giving Guide is distributed to encourage year-end giving, and to provide information about the valuable resources and services available from the diversity of organizations. There are many ways to give, and so much good work throughout the county.
Interested in animals? Check out Animal Haven by the Sea, Tillamook Animal Shelter or Tillamook K9 Rescue. Organizations that support children – Bay City Arts Center, CASA, Coast Kids, CHILD and many more. Seniors – we have information about Senior Meals Programs in North County, Rockaway Beach and Tillamook. Health, Environment, Recreation, Social Services – there truly is something for everyone. Their missions cover all the sectors of our society: health and wellness, sustainability, environment, conservation, food security, women, children, animals, and arts and cultural. One of the most valuable things you can give is your time. Volunteering will also provide well-being benefits that “something missing” connection to your community.
All things connect and the 2023 Tillamook County Giving Guide provides many opportunities to connect with your community to support with your dollars and your time, these vitally important organizations. Your generosity is needed and appreciated!
The “Tree of Life” paintings featured on the cover, and throughout the Giving Guide, are from Sitka Center’s Youth Program and visually show how we are all connected to each other, our community, and to nature.
We know the people who people our local nonprofits work hard to provide a wide variety of services, that enhance our lives here in Tillamook County. Besides their various services, our local nonprofits add other value to our community by providing jobs, a trained and inclusive workforce, volunteer opportunities, internships and training, and places and events where we gather socially. And more subtly, but no less importantly, because they work together, they are helping to create a culture of collaboration, partnerships and communication.
How about a donation in the name of your family member or friend to a local nonprofit? Or a membership in one of the organizations that will give your gift recipient all kinds of benefits throughout the next year? The donation will benefit many in our community.
Here is YOUR opportunity to give back. Donate time or money or simply share these valuable resources and services with those that need them. If you don’t see your favorite nonprofit on a page, check the list, and if you don’t see a local nonprofit please contact us to add it to the online list. We thank you in advance for your support of our local nonprofits that enrich our lives and community!
Fulcrum Community Resources’ (fulcrumresources.org) mission is to foster the transition of the Nehalem Bay community to a sustainable future. Our volunteer group initiates and coordinates local programs in north Tillamook County on the north Oregon Coast. We also sponsor others’ projects that fit with our mission and goals. We see Fulcrum, not as a hub, but as an enabling node – one of many groups locally who are organizing and creating projects. Our guiding philosophy is that the most effective and innovative projects are initiated at the grassroots community level.
The Tillamook County Giving Guide is produced in partnership with Fulcrum Community Resources, and Tillamook County Pioneer. The Giving Guide is mailed to every address in Tillamook County around the Thanksgiving holiday. Additional copies are available at Tillamook County Library branches and other locations throughout Tillamook County. It is available online at the Tillamook County Pioneer (www.tillamookcountypioneer.net) or North Coast BBQ (www.northcoastbbq.com).
Author: Laura Swanson, Board Member, Fulcrum Community Resources
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 | Sep 29, 2021 | Being Well
Drug overdose took more than 90,000 lives in the United States last year. For perspective, this photo shows a stadium in Alabama that holds roughly 90,000 people. That is more than three times the population of Tillamook County! Every day, our community is touched by overdose and substance use disorder (SUD). It is estimated that 1,700 people in Tillamook County live with opioid use disorder (OUD). That person can be our neighbor, our coworker, or our family. They deserve the support of our community to reach their goals and live a fulfilling life. If someone you know is struggling with an opioid addiction, take the first step in finding community resources by visiting OURTillamook.org.
OUR Tillamook, which stands for Opioid Use Response in Tillamook County, is a group of local organizations. They are working together to provide OUD support, resources and programs to anyone in Tillamook County. This group includes experts in healthcare, behavioral health, law enforcement, homeless services, addiction recovery, advocacy, education and government. Each member brings an area of specialty to the team.
In the last year, OUR Tillamook collaborated in providing new programs and supporting programs already established.
- Prime Plus peer support connects people starting their OUD/SUD recovery journey with helpful resources and support. To connect with a peer or learn more about the program call Michele Riggs with Tillamook Family Counseling Center at 503-815-5406.
- OURTillamook.org provides addiction, treatment and recovery information related to SUD/OUD. It offers easy to understand content through articles, videos, training guides and local resource lists. This site is designed to be a SUD/OUD hub for anyone touched by addiction.
- Free naloxone and training were given to law enforcement, educators and community members in Tillamook County. Naloxone reverses overdoses and can save lives. Nasal naloxone kits are available to the public, but supply will vary with grants available. If you are interested in getting a nasal naloxone kit contact Mareliza de Jesus at Adventist Health Tillamook at 503-815-2401.
- A new syringe exchange program has started. Pick-up wound care supplies, safe injection kits, Sharps containers, and safely deposit used syringes and exchange for new every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month from 11am-1pm in CARE’s lower parking lot, organized by Tillamook County Community Health Centers.
- A community behavioral health and OUD resource guide was created. It lists organizations, groups and other OUD resources available in Tillamook County and the surrounding areas.
- Medication for Opioid Use Disorder is available at the Rinehart Clinic, Tillamook County Community Health Centers, and now Adventist Health Tillamook. This service can help folks with OUD start their recovery journey. Speak to your provider to see if this is a good option for you.
- Need someone to help you navigate and guide you to SUD resources in the area? Jeannine Deaville, a substance use navigator, can connect you with resources that are most relevant to your situation. Call her at 503-815-2286 or email her at deaviljd@ah.org.
September was National Recovery Month. It is a chance to educate Americans that treatment and mental health services can help those with a mental and/or substance use disorder live a healthy and rewarding life. You can still get involved in National Recovery Month:
- Like and follow OUR Tillamook’s Facebook page to get news on upcoming events and program development.
- Visit OUR Tillamook.org to learn what resources are available in Tillamook County and how you can support a loved one living with OUD.
- Practice proper drug disposal. Do your part to prevent drug overdose. Drug disposal is currently available at Rinehart Clinic and Pharmacy, Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office, Tillamook Pharmacy, and Tillamook Police Department. There are also take-home kits available at Tillamook County libraries.
This project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Huma Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $1 million with 100 percent funded by HRSA/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views or, nor an endorsement, by HRSA/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
AUTHOR: Mareliza de Jesus, Associate Project Specialist at Adventist Health Tillamook
For more local health and wellness information, follow Tillamook County Wellness on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
by Guest | Jul 7, 2021 | Move Well
Tillamook County offers an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities, particularly in the water. Stand up paddleboarding, kayaking, and other paddle sports are a great way to enjoy the local scenery while getting some fresh air and a good workout. From complete beginners to those with extensive experience, Tillamook County has waterways that will appeal to every skill level and the resources to help make it a fun and safe experience.
Stand up paddleboarding (or SUP) has recently gained popularity, and for good reason. Besides being a relatively easy activity to pick up, it offers a fun and effective whole-body workout. It provides good aerobic exercise, and you will build core, arm, and leg strength while balancing and paddling. SUP is also low impact, making it ideal for people of all fitness levels, and you get to enjoy fresh air and beautiful scenery while you do it. An added benefit – you can grab a refresher by jumping into the water whenever you want!
However, before you run out to buy a paddleboard and hop in the water, it is important to have the proper equipment and training. You’ll find a brief overview below, but be sure to check out the Oregon State Marine Board’s Boater Info for more extensive safety information: https://www.oregon.gov/osmb/boater-info/pages/non-motorized-boating-and-paddling.aspx.
Being prepared starts with having the right equipment. The Oregon State Marine Board requires that all boats (including SUPs) have an appropriately sized life jacket for each person on board, a sound-producing device (like a whistle), and a Waterway Access Permit (which can be purchased through the Marine Board’s Boat Oregon Store: https://apps3.oregon.gov/). Also be sure to use an appropriate leash or tether to ensure you do not get separated from your SUP and always wear your life jacket. Be sure to dress in non-cotton clothes that are appropriate for the weather and water temperature.
Also make sure you are prepared with the correct training and information before you get out on the water. Do some research on your route ahead of time so you know what to expect in terms of water conditions and weather. Create a float plan and give it to a friend or family member before you leave, so they know when to expect you to return. Always go out with a group, and be aware of other boaters around you. Consider taking a paddle sports safety course before your first time out; the Oregon State Marine Board has a free introductory course, as well as plenty of other resources and safety tips on their website.
Not sure where to start with your aquatic adventures? Tillamook County offers some great resources to help you get started. If you’re just looking to rent a paddleboard and get yourself out there, Wheeler Marina and Oceanside Surf and SUP both offer affordable rental options. If you need a good spot to float, the new Tillamook County Trails and Recreation Map includes information about water trails, boat launches, and beach and water access that you can use to plan your trip. The Tillamook County Water Trail Committee has established the Tillamook County Water Trail, approximately 200 miles of interconnected waterways. Free printable guidebooks for this trail, including information about public access points and typical water conditions, can be found on the TEP website, or you can obtain a printed waterproof guidebook at the TEP office or by mail for a suggested donation of $10.
If you are interested in lessons or guided SUP tours, SUP Manzanita offers lessons taught by local expert Janice Gaines-Ehlen. These lessons can accommodate all skill and fitness levels. Janice, an outdoor enthusiast, has been surfing since the age of 8 and has a passion for nature, adventure, fitness, and health. You can find more information about her lessons and guided adventures here: https://www.supmanzanita.com/. If kayaking is more your speed, you can find information about local kayaking spots and services here: https://tillamookcoast.com/what-to-do/kayaking/.
However you choose to do it, Tillamook County is a great place to enjoy the water. Take these tips to get out there, enjoy the warm summer weather, have some fun, and find a new adventure. For more ideas, and inspiration, visit our website: https://tillamookcountywellness.org/move-well/
AUTHOR: Amy McVeety, AmeriCorps VISTA at Tillamook County Community Health Center
Photo Credit: Tillamook County Water Trails
For more local health and wellness information, follow Tillamook County Wellness on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
