Dallas County highlights employee wellness programs and community fitness centers during National Wellness Month

Dallas County Commissioners Court on Aug. 5 recognized August as National Wellness Month and received updates on county wellness investments intended for employees and residents. Commissioner Elva Garcia introduced a resolution declaring the month and highlighting county investments in trails, LEED-certified buildings and two on-site fitness centers, including the county gym known as the Dungeon. "We built this program out about three years ago," said Emmanuel Jones, fitness director at the Dungeon, describing members who used the facility to lose weight and reduce medication needs. Commissioners and county officials described the Dungeon—s employee Olympics and other programs that have included 5K runs, flag football and healthy-activity competitions. Health officials said the county is planning a new "South Dallas Lab" facility that will combine immunizations, community kitchens and programming that links community gardens with nutrition education. Commissioner Garcia said the county—s facility design and wellness strategy are intended to reduce health inequities tied to ZIP codes and expand access to green spaces and behavioral-health services. The court adopted the National Wellness Month resolution unanimously; it is ceremonial recognition of ongoing county programming and does not itself authorize new spending.