Michael Waldrum, MD, MSc, MBA Chief Executive Officer, ECU Health | ECU Health
Michael Waldrum, MD, MSc, MBA Chief Executive Officer, ECU Health | ECU Health
ECU Health Beaufort Hospital recently hosted its third annual Fall Harvest Event at the Community Well-Being Zone in Washington. The event focused on promoting healthy living by offering fresh produce, free health screenings, and educational opportunities related to nutrition and wellness.
Participants engaged in harvesting activities, gathering sweet potatoes, leafy greens, and herbs. The event space is equipped with 10 raised beds for vegetables, two planters for herbs, a storage shed, and areas designated for outdoor learning.
“This event is about more than just providing fresh vegetables,” stated Dr. Tammy Thompson, ECU Health’s Director of Experience, Engagement, Education and Design. “We’re fostering wellness habits and creating a space where the community can connect, learn and thrive. Hosting this event by the Wellness Center also allows us to showcase the resources available to help community members live healthy lifestyles.”
The event included free health screenings conducted on a mobile bus and tours of the ECU Health Wellness Center. Attendees received advice on home gardening, nutrition tips, exercise information, and enjoyed vegetable soup along with warm apple cider during their garden tour.
Support from partnerships played a role in the event's success. The Conetoe Family Life Center provided additional produce while an East Carolina University Public Health intern assisted guests with educational resources. Volunteers like Cathy Karlovich expressed enthusiasm about contributing to the initiative.
“Healthy eating is very important to me,” said Karlovich. “I understand how eating well can impact your whole life so doing something like this for the community and sharing valuable information is really special.”
Dr. Thompson encouraged community involvement through volunteer opportunities supporting the garden's mission.
“My hope with events like this is to cultivate not just a garden but a healthier more connected community,” Thompson remarked.
The garden welcomes visitors every Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon when harvested produce will be distributed alongside educational materials. Additional details are available at ECUHealth.org/WBZ
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