Research shows that individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities often die 25 years earlier than the general population. These individuals often find it more difficult to eat healthily, control their weight and be physically active. They also may not have access to appropriate, local medical services.
Therefore, the McLean County Board for Care and Treatment of Persons with a Developmental Disability (377 Board) and the McLean County Health Department in partnership with Carle Health & Fitness Center, Carle BroMenn Medical Center and the Carle Center for Philanthropy have developed an integrated, preventative health care project for individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities in our community.
Participants in this program receive memberships to Carle Health & Fitness Center supported by grants and private donors. Highly credentialed fitness professionals develop an individualized fitness program for each participant based off of their needs. The program participants also engage in group exercise classes and meet with a Registered Dietitian as part of a lifestyle modification program.
Since 2016, we have celebrated many positive outcomes of the program!
Neysa Award
The Neysa Award is given to participants who demonstrate great achievements through the program.
Neysa Danilson, a resident of Marcfirst and dedicated member of our Center, lived with cerebral palsy and set a goal with her Fitness Coach in early 2017 to walk unassisted. In Spring 2018 many of us got to witness Neysa conquering the track, and then the fitness floor. Unfortunately in May 2018, Neysa was diagnosed with cancer and passed away in July 2018 at the age of 47.
Neysa Award Recipients
- Jon Hughes
- Raphael Moore
- Staci Baker
Neysa Danilson
John Hughes
Raphael Moore
Staci Baker
Donate to the Partnership For Health Program here.
Your Donation will make a difference to those individuals with Developmental and/or Intellectual Disabilities in our community.
Instructions: Click on the red DONATE button. Click on the DONATE button in the Bloomington-Normal Carle BroMenn Medical Center box. Choose OTHER, then type in PARTNERSHIPS FOR HEALTH. Finally, select the dollar amount of your donation. If the amount you are interested in donating isn’t listed, select OTHER and type in the amount you would like to give. Complete the rest of the fields and click on the GIVE NOW button.
