Van Buren County FUN (Families Understanding Nutrition) Program
Barbara Anderson and Sandy McLain

Problem:
Van Buren County ranks high in obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease rates compared to the state and national rates. In 2000, a worksite study of over 660 people revealed that 43% of the workforce was obese and 48% were overweight. The county does not have a fitness center or community-based fitness activities (independent of the school systems) for children or their families.

Response:
A local committee was formed (including Extension) and with funds from the Wellmark Foundation, the Families Understanding Nutrition (FUN) program was instituted. Wellness meetings were held at 2 worksites and 2 schools. A FUN section that featured nutrition and wellness information was added to the local newspaper (24 articles). A FUN guidebook was developed, published and distributed to participants in the program. An additional 250 books were sold to participants outside the program. A total of 40 Lunch and Learn session were held at 3 sites, hiking trails were developed and a nutrition and fitness fair was held.

Impact:
36% of the 258 participants (3% of the county population) in the FUN program kept weekly log books of their healthy habits. They logged 40,198 miles of activity, consumed 40,855 servings of fruits and vegetables and consumed 91,534 glasses of water. Of the participants involved in screenings, 55% lost weight, 79% lost inches (99.5 inches), 66% lowered their blood sugar, 60% lowered their cholesterol, and 47% lowered their blood pressure.

Contact:
Barbara Anderson
Family Nutrition and Health Specialist
Wapello County Extension Office
101 North Court
Ottumwa, Iowa 52501
Phone 641-682-5491; Fax 641- 682-5148
Email bjanders@iastate.edu

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