During a recent government meeting, the executive director of Healthy Harrison, Mr. Rondahl, expressed gratitude to Councilman Howe for his contributions over the past three years and highlighted the organization's ongoing efforts to combat the opioid epidemic in Harrison County. He noted the importance of community engagement, particularly through initiatives like health games that helped sustain the organization during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rondahl emphasized Healthy Harrison's collaboration with local health institutions, including United Hospital Center and West Virginia University Health Science Center, to promote available resources for addiction recovery. He reported a significant increase in referrals—up 13%—within the county, attributed to their comprehensive online resource, discoveryrecovery.com, and community meetings aimed at supporting individuals struggling with addiction.

Despite these efforts, Rondahl pointed out the ongoing health challenges in West Virginia, where the state consistently ranks as one of the least healthy in the nation, with Harrison County positioned at 34th among its counties. To address these issues, Healthy Harrison has developed a three-part plan focusing on awareness, community engagement, and resource promotion.

The organization is currently seeking a $5,000 grant from the county to further its initiatives, which include hosting events at the Robinson Grand Theater to elevate health awareness. Rondahl concluded by inviting questions about the broader scope of health and wellness initiatives, indicating that while addiction recovery is a primary focus, the organization also addresses obesity and general community health as guided by federal directives.