Bloomington has snagged a national award, signaling the city's commitment to promoting a healthier environment for its residents. The accolade in question is the 2024 Voice of the People (VOP) Award for Transformation in Health & Wellness, reserved for local governments that shine based on resident feedback and community data, reports the City of Bloomington's official website. Handed out by Polco and the International City/County Management Association, this recognition doesn't come by easily, considering the city went through a competitive judge-review process where numerous applicants were whittled down to winners and finalists.
Bloomington stood out, according to the city’s website, because residents gave the city high marks on various surveys, including the National Community Survey, for being a livable and workable place. In the city's application submitting for the award, they focused on health and wellness service improvements. They highlighted their innovative approaches like the pioneering pilot program that binds licensed therapists with graduate students in the Police Department - a scheme specifically designed to provide timely mental health support to those in crisis.
Assistant City Manager Kathy Hedin highlighted the symbiotic relationship between the city and its residents in an effort to foster a healthier community. "Bloomington has always strived to be a place where people want to live," Hedin said. The partnership with Polco was crucial in this regard, providing the city with the necessary tools and insights for refining public health services. Hedin emphasizes, "Their tools and insights have helped the City of Bloomington innovate and adapt our public health services to better serve the evolving needs of our community."
Among the improvements that caught the eye of award judges were Bloomington's strategic tobacco prevention efforts and its mental health initiatives, detailed on the city's website. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the city's response mechanisms also earned praise. These various improvements have ultimately woven a tapestry of health-aware strategies that have resonated positively within the community and set a template for other cities looking to prioritize well-being.
