The Zion-Benton Coalition for Healthy Communities (CHC) has served the communities of Zion, Winthrop Harbor and Beach Park since 1995 and our accomplishments are substantial. Our vision to “Create a Community Without Barriers” is ambitious. Our membership is grounded in the belief that we can make a difference working together to remove community barriers to identified health, wellness and social issues. The Coalition for Healthy Communities is comprised of area businesses, organizations and individuals. Our experience supports that three independent communities working together for a greater whole is powerful! CHC membership believes and has proven that we can find solutions to problems that create barriers. We are confident that the connections and resources of our membership can make
a positive impact on the lives of our community members. Our four Task Forces are:
Substance Abuse Prevention — committed to sustaining current substance abuse prevention programs such as “Healthy YOUth” and “Social Norms Campaigns” program while developing supplemental plans. Literacy — committed to developing programs to improve community literacy. Our projects include the “Nursery Rhyme Campaign,” a partnership with local businesses, and the “Kindergarten Readiness Program” which is a partnership with the Lake County YWCA to train home daycare providers . We are continually developing programs geared toward improving early childhood, youth and adult literacy skills. Community Partnerships Task Force — committed to continuing the Zion-Benton Leadership Academy in an effort to develop leaders from within our community. Meetings are the 4th Thursday of each month at 5:00pm. Community Wellness — Dedicated to developing programs such as the “Health is Wealth” Fair to encourage nutrition, exercise and other healthy lifestyle choices. Zion-Benton Leadership Academy - The Zion-Benton Leadership Academy identifies, assists and empowers individuals to become active and inspiring contributors in our community. The coalition envisions community leadership reflecting the diversity of our community and that a culture change will result in leadership development, life-long learning and giving back in the Zion-Benton community. Community of Character - To improve the quality of life for everyone in our community by promoting values and character traits that guide positive behavior. A community that works, plays, and lives with character. The Coalition meets every first Friday of the month at 7:30 am. Please join us and get involved!
