Health

Health: Building Stronger Lives, One Person at a Time

Health is more than the absence of illness — it’s a complete state of physical, mental, and emotional well-being. True health allows individuals to:

  • Thrive at school and work

  • Build strong relationships

  • Engage with their community

  • Live long, fulfilling lives

At Cornhusker United Way, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to be healthy, no matter their zip code, income, or background.

 Why Is Health So Important?

Health is the foundation for everything in life. When people are healthy, they’re more likely to:

  • Succeed in school or career

  • Live longer, more productive lives

  • Avoid chronic diseases and hospitalizations

  • Contribute positively to their communities

Taking care of health early in life — especially for youth — prevents long-term issues and sets the stage for a lifetime of well-being.

Youth Health: Why It Starts Young

Healthy children are better learners, more confident, and more resilient. When youth have access to:

  • Nutritious food

  • Mental health support

  • Regular medical care

  • Safe environments to play and grow

…they’re more likely to become successful, engaged adults.

But many youth in Southeast Nebraska face barriers that affect their health — from food insecurity to limited access to mental health care and physical activity.

Southeast Nebraska Health Snapshot

Here are a few recent statistics that show where our community stands:

  • 1 in 5 Nebraskans experiences a mental health challenge each year

  • Nearly 30% of rural Nebraskans live in areas designated as primary care or mental health provider shortages

  • Obesity and diabetes rates continue to climb in both adults and children, especially in low-income populations

  • Over 12% of children in Nebraska live in households that are food insecure

  • Access to affordable dental and behavioral health care is a persistent issue in rural counties

What You Can Do to Take Care of Your Health

Improving your health doesn’t have to be complicated — small steps make a big impact over time.

For Adults:

  • Exercise regularly – even light movement daily counts

  • Eat more whole foods – fruits, vegetables, lean proteins

  • Visit your doctor for check-ups

  • Manage stress and seek support when needed

  • Limit alcohol and avoid tobacco use

For Youth & Families:

  • Ensure kids get enough sleep and physical activity

  • Encourage screen-free time and play

  • Prioritize emotional health – talk about feelings

  • Schedule regular wellness visits

  • Be a healthy role model

How Cornhusker United Way Supports Health in Our Communities

Cornhusker United Way is deeply committed to supporting healthy individuals, families, and communities across Southeast Nebraska.

We work to:

  • Promote nutrition programs, including food pantries and meal support

  • Invest in community health education and outreach programs

  • Provide referrals to health resources through our funded partners

Our mission is to remove the barriers — financial, geographic, and systemic — that prevent people from getting the care they need.