Healthy Bodies Healthy Minds

Who We Are

Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds (HBHM) is Washington County’s Health Equity Zone (HEZ). HBHM is one of 14 Health Equity Zones in Rhode Island, created in 2015 by the Rhode Island Department of Health.

We bring together residents, community organizations and policymakers to strengthen collaboration and develop community-driven solutions to address challenges and improve the quality of life in Washington County. 

Our goal is to remove barriers and improve community health and well-being. 

What Health and Well-being Means

Good health and well-being is about more than going to a health care provider. It also depends on:

• Safe and stable housing
• Reliable transportation
• Access to quality education
• Community resources that support well-being

What We Do

HBHM brings together the following groups to identify challenges and create solutions that improve quality of life in Washington County.

• Community members (residents)
• Local organizations
• Policy leaders and decision-makers

Our Mission

To advance the health and well-being of Washington County residents through community action that reduces health disparities.

Our Vision

We envision a Washington County where everyone has fair and equal access to the resources they need to live a healthy life.

Our Community Approach

HBHM is built on partnership and collaboration. Our work is based on a collective impact model: we work across organizations and sectors to create long-term solutions.

We listen to the community to guide our work. Through surveys, assessments, and resident input, we identify the biggest health challenges in our area.

Current Focus Areas

• Behavioral Health
• Housing

How We Work

Our Work Groups lead key initiatives by:

• Gathering data and listening to community experiences
• Identifying health challenges and setting priorities
• Creating action plans
• Implementing programs, projects, and policies that improve long-term health

Leadership and Support

• Steering Committee: Provides leadership, strategy, and guidance
• Program Manager: Oversees projects, budgets, and daily operations
• Backbone Organization: Wood River Health supports coordination, operations, and program success

Get Involved

HBHM is community-driven, and your voice matters. If you would like to share ideas or get involved:

• Email: Kristen.Frady@WoodRiverHealth.org
• Follow us on Facebook