FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. – A new initiative at Fort Campbell puts the health and well-being of civilian workers first by taking a comprehensive approach. Born out of the Leadership Fort Campbell (LFC) 2.0 class' exploration of the question, “How can Fort Campbell evolve into a healthy community?” This initiative took shape when the class proposed the creation of Wellness Ambassadors, a key component aimed at fostering a healthier community within Fort Campbell.
“As part of Leadership Fort Campbell, we were given a problem statement on how to improve the health of the Fort Campbell community. It took months of research and a thorough look into what makes us unhealthy. After that, we came up with a solution, and we're part of the Wellness Ambassadors,” said Brian Collier, district manager for Fort Campbell Fire and Emergency Services and a key member of the LFC Solutions Group.
Wellness Ambassadors serve as the primary point of contact within an organization or department. It provides information on where to turn for health guidance. Their role is to steer and guide individuals in the right direction and provide assistance with specific aspects of health that are needed.
“We found there was a huge opportunity in Fort Campbell and Clarksville when it came to health-related resources. The problem is that they aren't easily available, and unless you're actively seeking out these resources, you can't find them. You can waste a lot of time trying to find out what you're looking for,” said Ingrid Duty, property bookkeeper at the Fort Campbell facility and member of the LFC Solutions Group.
She explained that leveraging existing personnel within the organization as wellness ambassadors facilitated the seamless implementation of this initiative.
“We were able to do this effectively by leveraging individuals already embedded in the organization, creating roles within each department, and making them the go-to source for wellness resources. ”
David Keats, construction manager for the Fort Campbell Public Works Directorate and member of the LFC Solutions team, spoke about the role Wellness Ambassadors are playing in introducing the new Wellness Council. “The Wellness Ambassadors are meant to be that bridge, and the Wellness Council is meant to strengthen the partnership between directors and the civilian workforce.”
“The Wellness Council is important because it is a diverse group of employees who work toward the goal of making Fort Campbell a healthier and happier community. So when someone needs mental health resources, They have someone here who can respond and point them in the right direction,” said Michelle Ashby, Fort Campbell sexual assault response coordinator and LFC mentor.
The Civilian Wellness Council operates on seven pillars of health that align with the Army's comprehensive framework. Encompassing spiritual, emotional, intellectual, physical, social, environmental and economic aspects, the Council embodies a holistic approach to well-being. The Council aims to promote health services and strengthen participation through information sharing, training and directorate level competitions.
Fort Campbell Garrison Commander Col. Chris Midbury signed a policy to formally establish a Civilian Health Council and appoint a Health Ambassador in September 2023. The introduction of both organizations took place at a staff town hall in February 2024, with an emphasis on health and explanations of their roles. About the presence of ambassadors and how they can contribute to the workforce.
The council is governed by a tripartite chair consisting of the Deputy Garrison Commander, the Garrison Command Sergeant Major, and a rotating Civilian Health Ambassador, ensuring diverse representation from various aspects of the Fort Campbell community. Masu. Directors and staff office managers appoint passionate volunteers as Civilian Health Ambassadors who are responsible for coordinating activities and distributing health information within their respective organizations.