National Public Health Week 2025 marks a significant 30-year milestone for the Henry and Stark County Health Departments. This year, the theme is “30 Years—Public Health Week It Starts Here.” Duane Stevens, Public Health Administrator, emphasizes the importance of individual actions in shaping healthier communities. Throughout April 7th-13th, 2025, efforts will focus on prevention, advocating for equitable policies, and sharing strategies for enhancing physical and mental health. With 56 dedicated employees, the Health Department continuously serves 60,000 residents.
Duane Stevens, Public Health Administrator of the Henry and Stark County Health Departments notes, “This year’s theme notes that public health starts with each of us making a difference in our homes and communities. It’s how the places we where we live, work and play affect our well-being. It’s the way we are all stronger—and healthier—together through the efforts of organizations like the American Public Health Association and others that advocate for healthy communities. Join us for the 30th anniversary of National Public Health Week to celebrate successes, look ahead to upcoming challenges and create a vision for the future. National Public Health Week, because public health is all of us—and it starts here.”
Stevens adds, “Join us in observing NPHW 2025 and become part of a growing movement to create the healthiest nation in one generation. During the week, we will celebrate the power of prevention, advocate for healthy and fair policies, share strategies for improving both the physical and mental health of our residents, and champion the role of a strong public health system.”
Stevens concludes, “People often do not realize the full impact of the Health Depart- ment’s programs and services. This Public Health Week please take a moment to remember how the Health Department is continuously striving to create healthier communities. Our staff of 56 full-time employees are dedicated to making a difference in the health of 60,000 area residents each and every day.”
For more information on heart health and the services of the First Choice Healthcare Clinics, you may call the location nearest you in Kewanee at (309) 852-5272, Colona at (309) 792-4011, or Toulon at (309) 852-3115; visit https://www.henrystarkhealth.com, or find them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.