Invest Health InitiativeThe City of Roanoke has been selected by Reinvestment Fund and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to take part in the new Invest Health is aimed at transforming how leaders from mid-size American cities work together to help low-income communities thrive, with specific attention to community features that drive health such as access to safe and affordable housing, places to play and exercise, and quality jobs. Roanoke's team comprises representatives from Roanoke College, the City of Roanoke, Freedom First Credit Union, United Way of Roanoke Valley, and Local Environmental Agriculture Project (LEAP).
Over the next 18 months (May 2016 forward), Invest Health teams will take part in a vibrant learning community, have access to highly skilled faculty advisors and coaches who will guide their efforts toward improved health, and receive a $60,000 grant. Roanoke will also engage a broader group of local stakeholders to encourage local knowledge sharing. Learning from the program will be synthesized and disseminated through the project website. www.investhealth.org
