BCBS Presents $10,000 Grant to VCHS and Univ. of NE Extension

August 1, 2011

ORD - Valley County Health System and the University of Nebraska Extension were presented with a second $10,000 grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska on July 31st at the Valley County Fair.  The funds will be used to fund "Fit & Lovin' It," a program for area 5th and 6th graders.  The grant is made possible through the 2011 BlueHealth Advantage Wellness Grant program.  The "Fit and Lovin' It" program will provide a learning opportunity for area 5th and 6th grade students to increase awareness, encourage skill enhancement and focus of attitude toward individual health.  These include those related to nutrition, physical activity, seat belt use and tobacco.  The program will be held during the 2011-2012 school year.

VCHS CEO Jack Williams, Jr., Extension Educator Kayla Hinrichs, BCBS of NE representatives Rob Trebilcock and Celann LaGreca made comments at the event.

BCBS also held a surprise giveaway for one of the 5th graders who participated in the program last year.  A name was drawn at random from those students who completed the daily nutrition and fitness tracking calendars.  The giveaway was a Schwinn 24" Mountain Bike and helmet. The winner was Sarah Lueck from Arcadia.  She is the daughter of BJ and Becky Lueck. 

For more information about the program, contact the University of Nebraska Extension at 308.728.5071 or VCHS at 308.728.4347.

Photo Caption:  Celann LaGreca and Rob Trebilcock with BCBS of Nebraska present Sarah Lueck of Arcadia with a Schwinn mountain bike and helmet.  Sarah won the surprise giveaway through a random drawing of students who participated in tracking their fitness and nutrition after last year's Fit & Lovin' It program. Kayla Hinrichs, UNL Extension Educator is holding the $10,000 check.