By: Kathryn Fenstermacher

Sometimes, the path towards positive change starts with an invitation.

On Thursday, February 17, the Blackford County Senior Citizen Center hosted a special guest to learn more about a new health resource in Hartford City, The Invitation to Health and Wellness Program.

Dr. Scott Fenstermacher, associate professor at Taylor University and co-director of The Invitation Program, provided an overview of the program and its offerings to the community. 

The presentation was well-received by the approximately 35 attendees, who raised a number of questions about the program and how to get involved.

“I thought he did a very good, precise presentation,” said Judy Marshall, a regular attendee at events hosted by the Center. “I’m glad that he came.”

Pat Redmond, board member for the Senior Center, coordinated Dr. Fenstermacher’s visit. “I think it was very encouraging,” she said of his presentation. “I think it was very enlightening, and I think everybody needs to be made aware [of The Invitation Program].” 

The Invitation Program pairs trained student health educators with community members who are seeking a healthier lifestyle. With guidance and coaching from their health educator, participants work through a Centers for Disease Control-approved health curriculum that aims for improved nutrition, sleep, stress-management, physical activity, and mental health. Participants also engage in an exercise program tailored to their level of fitness.

Through these healthy “building blocks,” program participants start to establish healthier habits that will help them meet their personal wellness goals, as well as help improve or prevent common chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes.

According to a report published by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, Blackford County is ranked only 77th for health outcomes among all 92 Indiana counties. According to Dr. Fenstermacher, this is one reason why The Invitation Program strategically chose to open a clinic site on the square in Hartford City. “Our desire is to invite the Hartford City community to a life of vitality and transformation,” he said, “which helps you be more able and active to participate in the activities and relationships which are meaningful to you.”

That is where the program name came from, he said. “Invitation” stands for Inspire vitality and transformation in our neighborhoods.

Autumn Roach, LPN, public health nurse and public health educator for Blackford County, was onsite at the Senior Center during the event, as she routinely offers blood pressure checks and COVID-19 updates to attendees.

“I think [The Invitation Program in Hartford City] is very important,” she said. “There is a big lapse in our citizens with their diagnosis, especially as they age. Sometimes, meeting people where they’re at and basically tweaking different parts of their lifestyle can improve their quality of life and diagnoses.”

The most common question at Thursday’s event had to do with cost: how much does it cost to participate?

At The Invitation Program, the first session is always free. After that, the charge is $5 per visit, but the clinic will still work with participants who find this to be a hardship. “We never let cost be a barrier to participation,” Dr. Fenstermacher said.

The Invitation Health and Wellness Program is located at 116 N. Jefferson St., Hartford City. Hours of operation: Monday, 3-6 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. to noon.

To learn more about The Invitation Health and Wellness Program, please visit www.invitationprogram.com, call (765) 998-4326 or email invitationprogram@taylor.edu.