A recent community project demonstrated “the beauty of the Central Kansas Partnership (CKP) in many ways,” said Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services director.

The project entailed contributing to the Trail of Lights annual Christmas displays throughout town.

“Youth Crew, along with all other CKP task forces were represented in varying capacities,” Woodmansee said. “And to top it off, the youth worked in tandem with CKP stakeholders, task-force leaders and parents. It was a great turnout.”

In addition to Youth Crew, other task forces included Suicide Prevention, Rise Up, Be Well Barton County, Breastfeeding and Chronic Disease Risk Reduction.

“It is important for youth to see the various ways they can give back to their community,” Woodmansee commented. “They donated their time and talents, while spreading a little holiday cheer. CKP task forces as a whole came together to support one another.

“This illustrates the big picture of CKP,” she continued. “We join in a common effort to build healthy, safe and caring communities, as well as reduce tobacco and substance use, and promote positive attitudes and behaviors.”

Young people involved in CKP have many opportunities to interact with their neighbors to benefit central Kansas and “learn a few valuable life lessons along the way. These connections are vital to our youth.

“CKP displays a vibrant culture of programs and grassroots efforts that promote health, wellness and rural-community prosperity,” Woodmansee added.

She encouraged local and area individuals, businesses and groups to learn more by visiting www.ckpartnership.org.

“We will try to answer your questions, and if we don’t have immediate answers, we will point you in the right direction.”

The partnership formed in 1991, with the development of Barton County Leadership, Education, Action Against Drugs (LEAD). In 2010, the Healthy Communities Coalition joined the Barton County Partnership to develop CKP. Its task forces advocate for central Kansans to foster the common good.