Our mission is to improve the health of the people of Manitowoc County.
ABOUT
A coalition of community leaders was formed in 2004 to identify and address Manitowoc County’s health concerns. Healthiest Manitowoc County (HMC), a community- based initiative, seeks to make positive changes in the health status of Manitowoc County residents. The HMC Steering Committee consists of representatives from many sectors of the community.
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From a health survey of Manitowoc County residents commissioned by Aurora Health Care and the Manitowoc County Youth Risk Behavior survey of all high school students administered through the WI Department of Public Institute, the HMC Steering Committee chose health priorities that are addressed through local coalitions and HMC provides oversight to the coordinating coalitions.
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In 2006, Northeastern WI Area Health Education Center received a three-year federal Rural Health Outreach Services grant on behalf of HMC that funded four initiatives to address physical activity/nutrition, car seat safety, youth dental services and youth risky behaviors. At the same time, a three-year Wisconsin Strong Rural Communities Initiative grant was also received by the Manitowoc County Public Health Department to assist with worksite wellness.
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In 2008, HMC received a five-year federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Drug Free Communities grant to address underage drinking, tobacco and other drug abuse in Manitowoc County.
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In 2010 HMC conducted a joint planning process with United Way Manitowoc County to develop its community health improvement goals to be reached by 2020. One of the results of that planning was the addition of mental health as a community focus. Currently HMC focuses on five identified health needs in Manitowoc County.
They are:
- Activity and Nutrition
- Healthcare Access (Including health, dental and mental)
- Injury Prevention
- Mental Wellness
- Substance Abuse Prevention

In 2012 HMC received news that Manitowoc County was ranked 41 out of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin for health rankings and 49 in health outcomes (Read More). Out of the data received three areas identified to help improve those numbers were obesity, tobacco use and percent of children living in poverty. Fortunately in July 2012, HMC was notified that they had received a two-year, $460,000 Transform WI grant to provide resources to address obesity and tobacco use in Manitowoc County.

HMC is fortunate to have the support and involvement of so many community members and leaders. Everyone is needed to improve the health of the county. We hope you take care of your own health and get involved to make Manitowoc County the healthiest it can be. To get involved click here.

