As a program of the Salt Lake Chamber Foundation, Utah Community Builders spotlights one organization each month that’s making a meaningful difference in the community. The initiative supports the Foundation’s mission to engage Utah’s business community in addressing key issues that strengthen the state’s workforce.
Did you know Utah is projected to see one of the fastest increases in obesity rates among all 50 states by 2050, with adolescents especially impacted? Get Healthy Utah is working to change that by helping create a stronger, healthier future for our state. What started a little over a decade ago as a health coalition has grown into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on advocacy and building healthier communities across Utah.
Executive Director Alysia Ducuara shared, “We are really trying to help businesses and employers explore ways they can support healthy habits that, in turn, help prevent chronic conditions many people are facing, like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.”
With three main focus areas — physical activity, healthy food access and mental wellbeing — Get Healthy Utah partners with local and state leaders to make healthy choices feel easier and more accessible in everyday life.
The organization also manages the Healthy Utah Community designation in partnership with the Utah League of Cities and Towns, recognizing communities that are going above and beyond to implement proven strategies that support better health.
As Ducuara explained, “No one person impacts health alone; everyone has a role. From city planners and transportation teams to parks and recreation, the way our communities are designed influences how people move, connect and stay active. Health truly touches every sector.”
“Cities and towns that have committed to the Healthy Utah Community designation are already seeing positive results. It helps communities better understand their role in shaping health, keeps wellbeing a priority and gets people excited.”
She pointed to real examples happening across the state, neighbors building and caring for food gardens, communities creating more opportunities to get outside together, cities adding crosswalks and local groups hosting events that help people feel more connected and less alone.
It’s just a glimpse of the many ways Utah communities are stepping up to support healthier lifestyles.
To learn more about the Healthy Utah Community designation and how you can get involved, visit the Get Healthy Utah website gethealthyutah.org.
