Staying healthy both physically and mentally is essential to living a great life. Without good health, people face roadblocks around employment and education and are unable to become their best selves. Healthy communities are strong communities, so we must work to improve health and wellbeing county-wide. 

73/87

Mower County ranks 73rd out of 87 counties for health outcomes (length and quality of life)

69/87

Mower County ranks 69th for health factors (social and environmental determinants of health)

SOURCE

United Way of Mower County is fighting to improve the health for every individual within our community. UWMC is strengthening Mower County through our funded partners. 

Examples of Impact in 2023...

2,500+

individuals served through health care services

1,300+

children received dental treatment at low or no cost

success stories.

Recovery is Happening - Recovery on a Mission

"Ryan’s story is one of perseverance, determination, and transformation. From battling addiction to now being a pillar of strength and inspiration for others, Ryan’s journey is nothing short of a success story. 
 
In October of 2023, Ryan returned to the sober living house in Austin, Minnesota. It was a pivotal moment in his life, as he knew it was time to turn his life around and break free from the chains of addiction. He was ready to embrace a new path that would lead him to a brighter future. 

One of the first things Ryan did was to join the twelve step recovery support groups. These group sessions proved to be instrumental in helping him overcome his addiction. Through these meetings, he was able to find support, encouragement, and guidance from others who were going through similar struggles. Ryan realized that he was not alone in his battle and that there were people who genuinely cared for his well-being. 
 
In addition to attending support groups, Ryan also started his outpatient treatment and began working with a Peer from Recovery Is Happening. He was determined to make a complete lifestyle change and sought professional help to guide him through the process. With the help of therapists and counselors, he was able to address the underlying issues that led to his addiction and develop healthier coping mechanisms. 
 
Despite being in recovery, Ryan did not let it hinder his personal and professional growth. He successfully maintained a job at Domino’s, showcasing his commitment and dedication towards building a better life. Along with his job, he also took the initiative to enroll himself in CDL classes at Riverland College. This was a remarkable step towards his goal of becoming a professional truck driver and achieving financial stability. 
 
As Ryan continued to progress in his recovery, with the support of his Peer, he also took the opportunity to open up and have honest conversations with his peers about mental health concerns. His vulnerability and willingness to share his struggles gave others the courage to do the same. Together, they formed a positive and supportive social recovery network within Mower County. 
 
Ryan’s transformation did not go unnoticed, and soon he became a mentor for others in recovery. He showed them that with determination and hard work, they too could break free from the chains of addiction and lead a fulfilling life. His dedication and commitment to putting his addiction in remission also reflected in his family relationships. He became a healthier and more present member of his family, which helped in mending any broken bonds. 
 
What is truly remarkable about Ryan’s journey is that he has achieved all of this on his own. He took the necessary steps towards bettering his life and was not afraid to reach out for help when he needed it, leaning heavily on the support from his Peer. His story is a testament to the fact that with determination and determination, anything is possible. 
 
Today, Ryan is a beacon of hope for others struggling with addiction. He has proven that no matter how tough a situation may seem, there is always a way out. His journey from addiction to recovery serves as a reminder that hard work and perseverance can lead one to a successful and fulfilling life. 
 
In conclusion, Ryan’s success story is nothing short of inspiring. His determination to overcome addiction, rebuild relationships, and better himself as an individual is truly commendable. He has shown that with the right mindset and support, one can achieve anything they set their mind to. Ryan’s story serves as a reminder that there is always a light at the end of the tunnel, and with hard work and determination, one can create their own success story."

Crime Victims Resource Center

“We have a client who regularly attends our Women’s Support and Education Group. This woman has been involved in several long-term and highly abusive relationships since she was young. She often describes herself to have jumped from one relationship to the next as she tried to find love and acceptance from partners. Unfortunately, they used this vulnerability to hurt her. The years of abuse greatly affected her self-image and her self-confidence. 
When she first began attending, she had only been free from her most recent relationship for less than a year. She was quiet and while she shared her story, she was often guarded. She would make comments such as that she blamed herself for her abuse and felt foolish for not leaving earlier. However, over the last 4 months, she has completely come out of her shell and has shared her story freely without fear of judgment. Through our group discussions, she has grown in confidence, resiliency, and has been able to find peace in life after her abuse. We have been able to explore the reasons behind why men abuse, and the other women have helped validate her experiences by sharing their own stories. She has also been able to become a peer support for women in the group too. She has exchanged contact information with other members and has helped build of web of support for other abused women in the community. She and others have shared how when they faced difficult days or nights, they were able to rely on each other for support outside of the group. 

​The group has allowed her to have a safe place to talk about the things she has experienced. It has given her a space to share her healing journey and establish a connection with other women in various stages of their own journeys. It has also helped her build the tools and support to find her independence. In a recent session, she shared, "this group has helped me find the new real me." "

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