ANOKA, Minn. – (April 14, 2016) – The Anoka County Board of Commissioners recently recognized the extraordinary efforts of dedicated individuals and groups who devote their time, energy, and talent to improving public health with presentation of the 2016 Public Health Awards. Award recipients were recognized for their leadership, community health improvement, collaboration, and advocacy.
The first award was presented to the Chemical Health Initiative Partnership, which includes students from Centennial Middle School, St. Francis Middle School, Pines School, and Anoka County Juvenile Corrections. The students worked together to produce four videos that offered key anti-drug and alcohol messages: one for students who have experienced chemical use in Pines school; two directed at middle school students; and one that provided information for parents.
A second award was presented to Joe Grafft, who was honored for his work in establishing Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) classes in area high schools. Approximately 50 students attend these classes each year to learn the skills necessary to become a registered EMR. Grafft’s programs have given students a greater appreciation for the medical profession, sparking their interests in physical and occupational therapy as well as nursing and medicine.
A third award was presented to Leah Sams for establishing a highly successful Biomedical Sciences program in area schools. The program gives students hands-on learning experience with Mercy Hospital and Medtronic, and provides them opportunities to hear unique speakers and take field trips related to careers in the health field. She also aligned the program with college and career pathways, enabling high school students to earn college credits.
The final award went to the Northwest Metro Healthy Student Partnership, a project of the Anoka-Hennepin School District, Allina Health, and HealthPartners. This partnership is focused on providing innovative health care delivery through the strengthening of clinical and community partnerships. Students are offered health screening and comprehensive follow-up and support; the goal is to have a lasting impact on health behaviors by providing high school students information they need on health and wellness.
