Leadership Washington Participates in Health and Wellness Day

WASHINGTON, IA – Our 2022-2023 Leadership Washington class experienced a variety of health and wellness related offerings in town on Wednesday, Dec 14^th.  They started the day at the UP Home, where the dining staff provided a delicious breakfast.  The class learned about many of the various health conditions that can affect the eyes by Dr. Megan Hangartner of Modern Eye Care.  Following her presentation, they toured the UP home with Erin Drahota, Executive Director and participated in a short yoga workout with Amy Kleese, Director of Relations.

They traveled to the YMCA from there, where Brandi Hemsley of JET Physical Therapy educated the class about how physical therapy can alleviate various causes of pain and improve various surgical outcomes like knee and hip replacements.  Nick Pacha, the Parks and Rec Director with the City of Washington, filled them in on the status of the various parks in town, including the development and usage of the new Wellness Park.  It was also nice enough for the class to go out to the Wellness Park and check it out themselves!  Amy Schulte of the YMCA gave a quick update on the status of Phase II, the addition of a new pool at the Y.  They are excited to break ground this coming spring!  Jolleen Cerka introduced us to the new Membership director, Kari Turner, and gave us a tour of the facility.  Kyla Wilkening also got the class’ blood flowing with a quick interval workout in the “rage cage.”

Next it was time for lunch, courtesy of the Washington County Hospital and Clinics.  CEO Todd Patterson gave the class an update on the new plant operations structure being added on to the hospital, as well as the new services and providers that have been added in the past year.  John Woodward gave an update on the Washington County Hospital Foundation.  The class then had the honor of receiving the first hospital tour since COVID started back in March of 2020!  They split up into 3 groups which were led by Greta Clemons, Brandy Glaspie, and Emme Keith.  Last but not least was a short presentation by Lisa Miller and Tiffany with Grace C Mae Advocacy Center.  It’s definitely a “hidden gem” in Washington, and a great resource for anyone struggling with mental health.

The class then moved across the street to the Halcyon House.  They served the class a wonderful snack before leading tours around the facility.  With both Chris Marshall, Executive Director, and Susan Wellington, Sales Director retiring in the upcoming weeks, we were also introduced to Vani Tshantz and Alisha Davis, who will be taking over their respective positions.

Last, but certainly not least, was a tour of Hospice of Washington County’s new building by Katrina Altenhofen, Executive Director.  The beautiful facility was a much-needed upgrade from their previous deteriorating building, and will be enjoyed by their staff and the people they serve for years to come!