LiveWell Shawnee County

05/28/2026

Sometimes the data is sobering. The su***de rate in Shawnee County is significantly higher than the national average, and higher than the state average as well. A key goal outlined in our Community Health Improvement Plan is to decrease the rate of su***de in our community. Doing so takes a collective effort from organizations, agencies, and people. This looks like decreasing the means to commit su***de, increasing outreach campaigns, and ensuring everyone has access to professional resources.

Uncover more in the 2026-28 CHIP, at livewellsnco.org/chip.

05/25/2026

In Shawnee County, those surveyed reported having more poor mental health days than both the state and national average, citing 5.7 poor days out of every 30. We're working to reverse this trend by increasing access to mental health providers and implementing campaigns to fight the negative stigmas around mental healthcare.

Learn more about the current state of health in Shawnee County by reviewing the 2026-28 Community Health Improvement Plan at livewellsnco.org/chip. 🗺️

05/20/2026

It's the last day of school for many students in USD 501! This summer SUN Meals will work to provide free, convenient meals and snacks for kids ages 1-18 during the summer at schools, parks, libraries, and other neighborhood locations.

Most meals are served Monday through Friday, with breakfast at 7:30AM and lunch at 11:00AM. Find the location in your neighborhood and grab a SUN Meal this summer!

05/20/2026

Let's get trekking! Join the TopCity Trails Alliance on one of numerous treks around Shawnee County. View the full calendar and find one that fits you, at livewellsnco.org.

Upcoming treks include:

🥾 May 27 - Kaw River State Park
🥾 June 3 - Skyline Park
🥾 June 10 - Dornwood Park

All treks start at 7:30AM ⏰

05/19/2026

Rossville recently held the third annual Toadstrangler 5K - a race and community event organized each year by Rossville Community Foundation. This event brings together the residents of Rossville, and attracts runners from outside the area for a morning of outdoor activity! The race starts at the community park and leads participants back into the peaceful dirt paths of Toadstrangler Trail.

See more photos on our site. 📸

05/18/2026

Here's a story featuring the annual Randolph Elementary Bike Train! Led by a LiveWell Active Environment Impact Team Co-Chair, this event encourages physical activity, social and neighborhood connectedness, and FUN. Check it out!

Randolph Elementary students got moving Friday morning with a bike train to school.

05/17/2026

May is Mental Health Awareness Month (or if you need more acronyms) - a time to remind ourselves and loved ones that mental health is just as important as physical health. Take some time this month to reflect, recharge, and engage in the things that make you happy.

05/15/2026

Pregnancy, birth, and life after a baby can bring joy—and sometimes unexpected emotions. What’s normal? When is it time to ask for help?

Join Leslie Arnold, certified nurse-midwife (CNM), for a casual, one-mile walk focused on postpartum and maternal mental health. Learn about common signs, when to find support, and how small steps like movement and connection can make a difference.

This free event is intended for all ages and activity levels. Bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and come ready with your questions.

🗓️ May 16
⏰ 9AM
📍 Washburn University (East side of Lee Arena)

05/06/2026

Join Topeka Doula Project and other local resources this Saturday at Mother's Loss & Identity Forum, a space created to help those dealing with loss connect with each other and professional support.

04/27/2026

Experiencing a loss is a difficult time, but you are not alone! Connect with resources, professionals, and others who have shared experiences for a day of recognition and reflection.

Mother's Loss and Identity Forum provide a space to gather and hold conversations centered around support and connection.

Childcare is available if you register in advance. Learn more ➡️ facebook.com/share/1NmKHGy2Tt/