Applications sought for Certified Healthy Oklahoma program

The application period is open for the Certified Healthy Oklahoma program.

The program helps organizations gauge where they are on supporting health. It provides resources to help create healthier environments as well as an annual certification award showcasing organizations that promote health and wellness.

The Certified Healthy Oklahoma program offers certification in seven categories:

•Certified Healthy Business — Any employer that provides employees opportunities to make healthier choices.

•Certified Healthy Campus — Colleges and career technology centers that provide a healthy environment for faculty and students.

•Certified Healthy Community — Communities that offer residents a

healthy place to live, work, learn, play and pray.

•Certified Healthy Congregation — Faith-based organizations that provide health and wellness opportunities.

•Certified Healthy Early Childhood Program — Early childhood programs that provide a healthy environment for children and their families, as well as staff.

•Certified Healthy Restaurant — Restaurants that provide healthy food options to their customers and healthier environments for their staff.

•Certified Healthy School — Schools modeling and teaching students and staff how to be healthy.

Applications must be submitted by Nov. 1. Applicants will be notified of awarded certification level in December and formally acknowledged at an awards ceremony in March.

“We are pleased with the growth of the Certified Healthy Oklahoma program,” said state Health Commissioner Dr. Terry Cline.

“Last year, more than 1,700 applicants received certification. We encourage this year’s potential applicants to consider how they are making the healthy choice the easy choice for their employees, customers, students and residents, and submit an application for Certified Healthy Oklahoma certification,” Cline said.

The Certified Healthy Oklahoma program is a joint effort of the state Department of Health, The State Chamber, The Oklahoma Academy, Oklahoma Turning Point Council and other partners helping to shape a healthier future for Oklahoma.

To learn more

To learn more about the program and to complete a certification application, go www.certified healthyok.com.