Goals

*2010 Goals are currently being updated.  Goals Attained and Goals Not Meeting Target will adjust accordingly.*

Check the progress Buffalo County is making on the Top 10 by 2010 in our 2008 Report to the Community. 

1995- 2001 Retired Goals

Goals Attained

• Alzhiemer's Disease Units
• Assisted Living Units
• Reduce Domestic Violence
• Immunizations - 65 yrs and older
• Preventing Adverse Drug Interactions
• Reduced Teen Pregnancy
• Suicide Prevention
• Transportation
• Teen Smoking

Goals Not Meeting Target

• Alcohol Use - Binge Drinking
• Alcohol Use - Motor Vehicle Use
• Alcohol Use - Driving Under the Influence
• Child Abuse
• Immunizations - Influenza
• Immunizations - Infants
• Maintaining Independence of Older Adults
• Reduce Obesity

Goals Without Current Measurable Data

• Affordable Housing
• Water Quality

Goals Attained

Alzheimer's Disease Care Goal:

To create the capacity for 50 specially designated Alzheimer's beds within Buffalo County by 2001. 1996 Baseline: No out of home facilities in Buffalo County designated to take care of people with probable Alzheimer's Disease. 2001 Target: 50 units 2001 Status: 50 specially designated units for patients with Alzheimer's Disease

• 1996: A Goal Work Group formed with representation from: Educational Service Unit 10, Alzheimer Association, Good Samaritan Health Systems, Area Agency on Aging, Kearney Interfaith Caregivers, Mt. Carmel, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Region III and Senior Hospitality Center.
• 1997: Completed an Asset Map.
• 1997: Mount Carmel opened 16 beds specifically designed for patients with Alzheimer's Disease.
• 2000: Prairie View Gardens opened 28 beds. In 2001 reclassified 10 to assisted living. In 2002 current capacity is 18 units specifically designed for patients with Alzheimer's Disease
• 2002: Ravenna Good Samaritan Center will open 16 beds specifically designed for patients with Alzheimer's Disease.

BCCHP Grant Funding Received -- $35,000

• 1997: Special Care for Alzheimer's Patients for Mt. Carmel Home: $10,000
• 2000: Alzheimer's Units for Ravenna Good Samaritan Center: $20,000
• 2001: Ravenna Youth Activities with Alzheimer's Patients at Good Samaritan Center: $5,000

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Assisted Living Goal:

To increase the number of licensed assisted living units available by 10% per year over the current baseline through the year 2001. 1996 Baseline: 58 units 2001 Target: 93 units 2001 Status: 300 licensed units, this exceeds the target by 223%.

• Licensed Units - Cambridge Court (48), St. Luke's Countryside Villa (20), WellLife (48), Homestead House (46), Prairie View Gardens (38); Northridge Retirement Community (50), Seneca Sunrise in Ravenna (50).

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Reduce Domestic Violence Goal:

Original Goal: To reduce domestic violence in Buffalo County from the current rate by at least 10% per year beginning in 1997 and continuing through 2001. 1995 Baseline (SAFE Center Only): The estimated incidence rate of domestic violence was 24.1/1,000 women. 2001 Target: Incidence rate 12.8/1,000 women. Revised Goal (June 1998): To increase public awareness of domestic violence and to improve the reporting of domestic violence through the implementation of a new community-wide measurement system. 2001 Status: Ongoing efforts underway to improve public awareness. New community-wide measuring system is in place.

• 1996: Formed a Goal Work Group to address Domestic Violence and Child Abuse Priority Health Goals with the following organizations at the planning table Mid Nebraska Community Action, CARE, United Way, Buffalo County Domestic Violence Coalition, Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce, SAFE Center, RAFT, Good Samaritan Health Systems, Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Family Advocacy Network, Richard Young Hospital, Victim Witness Unit, NHHSS, EPICC (FRC), Buffalo County CASA, Kearney Senior High School, Kearney Police Dept., Family Life Skills, Goodwill, Kearney Ministerial Association, and UNK.
• 1996: Completed an asset map for Domestic Violence and Child Abuse.
• 1997: Partnered with Good Samaritan Health Systems and Catholic Health Initiatives in hosting a June conference to orient Buffalo County to the issue of Domestic Violence. The goal of the conference was to build a community plan to address domestic violence.
• 1997: Assisted in the development of the Buffalo County Domestic Violence Coalition Coordinated Response Team (CRT). The CRT tracks policies and protocols with all agencies that provide services to victims of violence. The CRT also identifies gaps in service.
• 1997: Conducted a survey with the assistance of University of Nebraska at Kearney. The survey identified gaps in service by interviewing community professionals.
• 1999: Conducted workshop for businesses "Family Violence, Its Impact in the Workplace".
• 1999: Assisted in the development of the Family Advocacy Network, an advocacy center for victims of abuse, including children, families and adults.
• 1999: Partnered with Well Workplace Task Force to identify workplaces with Health Promotion Teams working on securing a Well Workplace Award in which Domestic Violence and Child Abuse programs could be incorporated.
• 1999 to present: Designed and distributes "Toolkit; a Resource Manual for the Workplace."
• 1999 to present: Since the 1999 workshop worked with businesses to provided with free educational presentations and assistance in developing policies and protocols to assist employees in identifying victims of violence and next steps to take to ensure the victims safety and the safety of the workplace.
• 1999 to present: Worked with the following businesses to implement family violence policies and protocols: Eaton Corporation, Good Samaritan Health Systems, and Good Samaritan Hospital Emergency Room.
• 2000: Implemented the first Buffalo County Batterer's Intervention Program (BIP) to provide an alternate to incarceration for abusers, assist in establishing awareness of Domestic Violence and change in behaviors.
• 2002: Working with these businesses to design and implement family violence policies and protocols: First National Bank of Omaha Credit Card Center, Kearney Clinic, Mid-Nebraska Community Action, Liberty Cleaners, Curtis and Associates, Kearney Public Schools, Cash Wa Distributing, and Kearney Hub.

Domestic Violence BCCHP Grant Funding Received -- $54,930.25

• 1997: Child Abuse and Domestic Violence Survey: $250
• 1997: Workplace Domestic Violence Awareness Campaign: $728
• 1997: Family Centered Services Family Violence Campaign: $7,800
• 1998: Domestic Violence Candlelight Vigil: $1,500
• 1998: Domestic Violence Awareness Campaign: $2,500
• 1999: Domestic Violence Candlelight Vigil: $1,015.25
• 1999: Family Violence, Its Impact on the Workplace Workshop: $1,140
• 2000: Community Domestic Violence Education Project: $11,000
• 2000: Buffalo County Batterers Intervention Program (BIP): $20,000
• 2000: Child Abuse / Domestic Violence Education Workplace Workshops: $4,294
• 2001: Buffalo County Batterers Intervention Program (BIP): $2,500
• 2001: Family Advocacy Network Conference: $2,203

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Immunization Goal - Pneumonia Age 65 and Older:

To achieve a 50% pneumonia immunization rate among adults age 65 and older in the county by 2001. Baseline as of 1995: 39.1% of those 65 and older have been immunized for pneumonia (Source: BRFS). Status as of 12/31/01: 51.4% of adults 65 and older have been immunized for pneumonia (Source BRFS 2000). This exceeds the target by 1.4%.

• 1998-2000: Mid Nebraska Community Action coordinated a collaborative team to address adult and children immunizations, with the theme "Be Wise Immunize". To increase immunizations the following actions were taken:
  • A part-time coordinator was hired.
  • Evening Clinic opened.
  • Additional clinics held in July and August.
  • Increased advertising for adult and children's clinics.
  • Buffalo County immunization computer information separated from other counties.
  • Provided publicity and transportation for adult immunizations.
  • Added additional adult clinic at Elm Creek Medical Clinic.
  • Added 2 additional late afternoon clinics.
  • Clinic appointment system implemented.
  • MNCA staff trained to provide immunizations.
  • All public immunization records on computer.
• 2001: Formed a Goal Work Group to address issue of immunization of youth due to new immunizations regulations. The following organizations are represented on the Goal Work Group: Mid Nebraska Community Action, Kearney Clinic, Family Practice Associates, Elm Creek-Amherst-SEM School Nurse, Gibbon School Nurse, Kearney Public Schools Nurse, ESU10 School Health Nurse and Nebraska Health and Human Services. Additional activities included:
  • Computer system administrator hired.
  • Computer records made available to schools and medical clinics.
  • Increased ability to store additional vaccine safely.
  • Transportation to adult "flu shot" clinics increased with use of R.Y.D.E.
  • Publicity for adults' clinics increased.
• 2002: Increased use of computer systems facilitated "paperless" clinics, automated recalls, physician summaries and easy access to immunization records at requested by parents.
• 2002: Publicity regarding adult and children's immunizations increased to include billboards and distribution of promotional materials.

BCCHP Grant Funding Received -- $33,682

• 1998: Be Wise Immunize Campaign: $11,370
• 2000: Be Wise Immunize Campaign: $8,440
• 2001: Be Wise Immunize Campaign: $13,872

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Preventing Adverse Drug Interactions Goal:

To ensure that by 2001 at least 75% of all persons 65 and older routinely taking more than one medication will have them reviewed at least annually by their pharmacist or physician for possible adverse drug interaction. Baseline as of 1996: 100% of pharmacists review the patient's prescriptions at time of service for adverse drug interactions through an automated process. This system does not pick up OTC drugs, physician samples, or drugs purchased at other pharmacies. 0% conducts an annual review of their customer's medications on a regular basis. Depending on the medication being dispensed, pharmacists may ask about over the counter drugs, physician samples, and other drugs being used. 1997: Determined that there was no way to accurately measure attainment of this goal as originally structured. Decided to acquire a baseline of the % of Buffalo County residents admitted or discharged to hospitals with adverse drug reactions compared to the % for the State of Nebraska and if higher than the state of Nebraska work to reduce this percentage. Baseline for Buffalo County in 1997 was 1.11%. Baseline for the state of Nebraska was .62%. Status as of 12/30/00: 18 Buffalo County residents in 2000 were admitted or discharged to hospitals for adverse drug reactions (ADRs), (NAHHS, 2002). There were 3,765 reported residents of Buffalo County admitted or discharged to hospitals. Based on the residents of Buffalo County admitted or discharged to hospitals. Based on the above, the estimated percent of ADRs in this market is .48% of reported admissions or discharges and ADRs. The state of NE estimates that percent of ADRs in their market is .66% with the number of reported admissions or discharges at 198,965 and ADRs at 1,315.

• Researched an action plan to address this goal; including brown bag lunches and prescription reviews by local pharmacists.

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Teenage Pregnancy Prevention Goal:

To reduce the number of pregnancies per 1000, in girls 17 years and younger in Buffalo County by .5 per year from the current baseline by 2001. Baseline as of 1994: The birth rate per 1,000 girls age 15 to 17 years old in Buffalo County is 24.0. This compares to a state rate of 24.3/1,000. The NDOH does not have county specific data on abortions. Fetal deaths at less than 20 weeks do not need to be reported to the state. Consequently, the above numbers are not entirely reflective of the actual total number of pregnancies in girls' age 17 years and younger. (Source: NDOH, 1990-94). Target by 2001: 20.5/1000. Status as of 12/31/00: The cumulative birth rate for girls 15-17 years old in Buffalo County for 1994 to 1999 is 16.4. This meets the 2001 target and exceeds the target by 4.1/1000.

• 1996: Formed Goal Work Group around Girl Power, Inc. Campaign. Members of Girl Power include Family Resource Council, United Way, Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce, SAFE Center, Kearney Public Schools, Nebraska Children's Home, Women's Health Services, UNK, Richard Young Hospital, Goldenrod Girl Scout Council and Region III Behavioral Health Services.
• 1996: Completed an Asset Map.
• 1996 to present: Girl Power is program targeted at teens and pre-teens in the Kearney area to build self-esteem. The Right Stuff U is for teen boys and was modeled after Girl Power.
  • Conducted 4 Girl Power Workshops for girls in 3 rd, 4 th and 5 th Grades
  • Conducted 4 Girl Power Workshops for girls in 6 th, 7 th and 8 th Grades
  • Conducted 2 Right Stuff U for boys in 7 th and 8 th Grades
  • Conducted 1 Parent Forum
• 1998: Kearney Public Schools received BCCHP grant funding to purchase six computerized babies for Life Skills classes.
• 1999: The Daisy Campaign was launched. Daises are the symbol of teen pregnancy prevention efforts. In March, daisies were distributed at Wal-Mart with 10 tips for parents to recognize their children's strengths and gifts.
• 2000: Identified one adult and one youth to attend the Healthy Community: Healthy Youth Search Institute Conference in MN. Funds provided by CHI Healthy Communities Grant.

BCCHP Grant Funding Received -- $4,000

• 1998: Life Skills" for 8 th Graders: $1,000
• 1998: Girl Power Workshops for Buffalo County Girls: $1,500
• 2001: Kearney Area Girl Power: $1,500

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Suicide Prevention Goal

To reduce the rate of suicide in Buffalo County from the current rate of 18/100,000 population in 1994 by at least one suicide per 100,000 population per year by the year 2001. Target for 2001: 11/100,000 population. Status of Suicide Prevention as of 2000: 10.35/100,000 population cumulative rate for Buffalo County for 1994 through 2000. This exceeds the target by .65.

• 1996: Goal Work Group formed and determined to focus in 3 areas: youth, elderly, and mental illness.
• 1996 to present: Initial meetings quickly formed new partners interested in developing a Behavioral Health Employment Program for the severe mentally ill to be housed at Goodwill, Inc., in Kearney. Goodwill opened the new program and started serving 15 individuals. This program has offices in Grand Island and Hastings. They all serve over 100 people with severe mental illness and recently expanded service to any individuals presenting a mental health diagnosis.
• 1996 to present: Advocate for legislation regarding mental health parity and many other mental health legislative bills.
• 1996 to present: Continue to collaborate with NAMI of Central Nebraska to disseminate information about their meetings, the Journey of Hope classes and NAMI Nebraska conferences.
• 1997: Completed an Asset Map.
• 1999: Goal Work Group members identified gap in services in support groups for UNK students and other community members dealing with mental illness.
• 2000: ACME (Accepting the Challenge of My Emotions) support group was started through start up funding by BCCHP. This support group serves UNK students with emotional issues or diagnosed with a mental illness.
• 2001: Facilitated a discussion between UNK and Good Samaritan Health Systems about suicide care and support for students after discharge.
• 2001: The HOPE support group was started, it is held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church is open to anyone in the community with depressive or bi-polar problems and their family members.
• 2001: Assisted in the development of a State Suicide Prevention Task Force.
• 2001 to present: Continue to educate community of 2000 Behavioral Risk Factor Survey results that show severe depression, stress and suicidal thoughts with Buffalo County adolescents. Working with schools and faith communities to build support groups for adolescents.
• 2001 to present: Continue to search avenue for developing a drop in center, group home, or transitional housing for individuals in Buffalo County.

BCCHP Grant Funding Received -- $8,500

• 1998: Depression and Mental Illness Support Group: $2,300
• 2000: Community Education on Mental Illness: $3,700
• 2002: HOPE and ACME Support Groups: $2,500

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Transportation Goal:

Increase the utilization and access to surface transportation services (other than individual vehicles) in Buffalo County as demonstrated by a 5% increase per year in the number of boardings from the baseline rate through 2001. Baseline as of 1995: 25,591 surface transportation boardings in Buffalo County. Target through 2001: 34,293 boardings. Status as of 12/31/01: The total surface transportation boardings for 2001 in Buffalo County equals 86,989. Boarding goal for 2001 was 34,293. Actual boardings exceeds the 2001 target by 154%.

• A Goal Work Group formed by bringing all the diverse organizations under one name to address public transportation needs.
• 1997: Completed an Asset Map.
• 1997: Funding received to bring to Kearney a representative from the Community Transportation Association of America in Washington, D.C. to assist in building a transportation strategic plan for Buffalo County. By 1998, the Goal Work Group had developed a 16 step Action Plan.
• 1998: BCCHP grant funding received to research national brokerage transportation models for rural communities. The Goal Work Group went on a site visit in Wyoming to learn more about a central dispatch brokerage transportation model.
• 1999: Good Samaritan Health Systems and Mid Nebraska Community Action (MNCA) joined transportation vehicles and operational resources to start the R.Y.D.E. fleet. MNCA took on the lead agency role.
• 1999: BCCHP grant funding received to start up a central dispatch system that will coordinate available transportation vehicles in Buffalo County. The Goal Work Group chose R.Y.D.E. (Reach Your Destination Easily) as the name for their new public transportation system.
• 2000: BCCHP grant funding received to implement R.Y.D.E. in Buffalo County as well as fund vehicle maintenance and repairs.
• 2000: The Goal Work Group split membership and leadership between the Goal Work Group and the MNCA Policy Advisory Committee for RYDE.
• 2000: Mid Nebraska Individual Services pledged operational resources to R.Y.D.E.
• 2000: Worked in partnership with Nebraska Department of Roads to implement ITS (Intelligent Transportation System) to assist in the dispatch and tracking of rides.
• 2001: RYDE received a Job Access/Reverse Commute grant from U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). This is the first grant from DOT for Nebraska and Buffalo County. $131,925
• 2001: Worked with Congressman Bill Barrett and Congressman Tom Osborne to secure a $75,000 feasibility grant through a congressional earmarked fund.
• 2001: Central Nebraska Goodwill pledged a vehicle and operational resources to R.Y.D.E.
• 2001: BCCHP grant funding received to support the purchase of nine wheelchair securement devices for the R.Y.D.E. fleet and ½ of the purchase of a reconditioned transportation vehicle for R.Y.D.E.
• 2002: R.Y.D.E. is coordinating 11 buses, 20 staff people, 5,000 boardings per month and keeping the cost per boarding to $4.64, well below the national average of $6.10. R.Y.D.E. currently contracts with Kearney Family YMCA, Mid Nebraska Individual Services, Central Nebraska Goodwill Industries, Good Samaritan Health Systems and Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services to provide transportation for their clients.
• 2002: R.Y.D.E. contracted with Good Samaritan Health Systems to provide bus shuttle service in their parking lots as an amenity for their clients and employees. This service provides an average of 8,300 riders per month.
• 2002: R.Y.D.E. received a Nebraska Congressional award of $99,000 to conduct a study to build maintenance and storage facility in Buffalo County with other interested agencies, including City of Kearney, Kearney Public Schools, Buffalo County Sheriff's Office, Good Samaritan Health Systems, and the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

Transportation BCCHP Grant Funding Received -- $63,401

• 1999: R.Y.D.E.: $19,991
• 1998: R.Y.D.E: $5,000
• 1998: Volunteer Recruitment of Interfaith Caregivers: $10,000
• 2000:R.Y.D.E.: $15,000
• 2001: R.Y.D.E.: $13,410

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Goals Not Meeting Target

Alcohol Use Prevention Goal - Binge Drinking:

To reduce the incidence of binge drinking to a level at or below the current national or state average (whichever is lower) by the year 2001. Baseline as of 1995: 23.9% of Buffalo County residents reported binge drinking as defined by five drinks in one setting by males and four drinks in one setting by females. The state and national averages for 1992 are 16% and 14%. Target for 2001: 10.4%. Status of Binge Drinking as of 12/31/00: 24.2% of residents report binge drinking. This is an increase over the baseline and represents a negative trend. top

Alcohol Use Goal - Motor Vehicle Crashes:

To reduce the number of Buffalo County motor vehicle crashes with alcohol involved by 5% each year from the current level beginning in 1997 through the year 2001. Baseline in 1990: 79 alcohol related crashes. Target through 2001: 45.62. Status of Motor Vehicle Crashes as of 12/31/00: Cumulative average of 61 through 12/31/00. top

Alcohol Use Prevention Goal - Driving Under the Influence:

To reduce the incidence of driving under the influence of alcohol from the current baseline to 4% by the year 2001 as measured by the Buffalo County Adult Behavior Risk Factor Survey. Baseline as of 1995: 8% of Buffalo County residents reported driving at least once after having too much to drinkTarget for 2001: 4%. Status of Driving Under the Influence as of 12/31/01: 5.2% of residents reported drinking at least once after having too much to drink. This is a 35% decrease from the baseline and is within 1.2% of the 2001 target.

• Formed Positive Pressure
  • Began a petition campaign to demonstrate that community does care about our young people and is very concerned about alcohol and drug use by youth.
  • Hosted 4 Community Forums on Drugs & Alcohol.
  • Hosted 6 Bi-Annual Youth Congress Events, inviting all 8 Buffalo County Schools.
  • Advocates for reducing binge drinking/drinking while driving.
  • Assisted in communications for Law Enforcements 2001 Compliance Check
  • Kearney City Council adopted "Community Standards".
• Shared information with Kearney City Council about making possession of tobacco a violation for youth under the age of 18. The Council adopted an ordinance making this a law.
• Investigate and make suggestions to City Council to amend Minor Access to Bars
• Meet regularly with local leaders to discuss community issues.
• Urge lawmakers to revise local and state liquor laws.
• Work to develop and distribute the Regional Prevention Guide.
• Set up information displays at a number of elementary schools during Parent-Teacher Conferences.
• Member of the "Pride and Pizza" planning committee.
• Present an educational session on methamphetamines at the Nebraska School Nurse Institute.
• Received grants form Buffalo County Community Health Partners in 1997 and 2000; High Intensity Drug Traffic Area Grant in 1998; and United Way Venture Grant in 2000.
• Worked to prevent a Head Shop from selling drug paraphernalia in 1999.
• Sponsored a club drug education forum in 2001.
• Co-sponsored an educational workshop on alcohol and other drug use in Kearney with First United Methodist Church in 1998 and 1999.
• Held focus group discussions with area youth to learn more about their perspectives regarding alcohol and drug use in the community in 1998. More discussions are planned.
• Worked with neighborhood associations to toughen underage drinking policies in 1998.
• Provided youth alternative activities in 1998.
• Sponsored a Parent Workshop on Methamphetamines that attracted 250 people in 1997.

Alcohol Use

• Contributing partner of "Teaming Up for a Drug Free Community".
• Worked successfully to make sure Gas N Shop was held accountable for selling alcohol to minors in 1997. As a result, liquor voluntarily removed from their shelves.
• Sponsored "Parenting Through Difficult Issues" community Forum in 2001.

BCCHP Grant Funding Received -- $27,547

• 1997: Positive Pressure - Parents & Youth of Buffalo County: $5,900
• 1998: Color Week Challenge: $600
• 1999: Youth Congress I: $1,500
• 2000: Youth Congress II: $4,064
• 2000: Pride and Pizza: $1,916
• 2000: National Youth Sport Program: $4,529
• 2001: Winning Attitudes with Rudy Ruettiger: $4,000
• 2001: VIPP (Violence Intervention and Prevention Program): $5,038

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Child Abuse Goal:

To reduce the incidence of substantiated child abuse and neglect among children aged 0-17 in Buffalo County by at least 10% compared to the baseline rate beginning in 1997 and continuing through 2001. Baseline rate in 1993: There were 201 substantiated cases of child abuse in 1993 which is an estimated rate of 12.39/1,000 children. Target rate through 2001: 7.33/1000. Status as of 12/31/00: 11/1,000 children. This exceeds the 2000 target by 3.14/100,000population.

• 1996: Formed a Goal Work Group to address Domestic Violence and Child Abuse Priority Health Goals with the following organizations at the planning table Mid Nebraska Community Action, CARE, United Way, Buffalo County Domestic Violence Coalition, Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce, SAFE Center, RAFT, Good Samaritan Health Systems, Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Family Advocacy Network, Richard Young Hospital, Victim Witness Unit, NHHSS, EPICC (FRC), Buffalo County CASA, Kearney Senior High School, Kearney Police Dept., Family Life Skills, Goodwill, Kearney Ministerial Association, and UNK.
• 1996: Completed an asset map for Domestic Violence and Child Abuse.
• 1999: Conducted workshop for businesses "Family Violence, Its Impact in the Workplace".
• 1999: Assisted in the development of the Family Advocacy Network, an advocacy center for victims of abuse, including children, families and adults.
• 1999: Partnered with Well Workplace Task Force to identify workplaces with Health Promotion Teams working on securing a Well Workplace Award in which Domestic Violence and Child Abuse programs could be incorporated.
• 1999 to present: Designed and distributes "Toolkit; a Resource Manual for the Workplace."
• 1999 to present: Since the 1999 workshop worked with businesses to provided with free educational presentations and assistance in developing policies and protocols to assist employees in identifying victims of violence and next steps to take to ensure the victims safety and the safety of the workplace.
• 1999 to present: Worked with the following businesses to implement family violence policies and protocols: Eaton Corporation, Good Samaritan Health Systems, and Good Samaritan Hospital Emergency Room.
• 2002: Working with these businesses to design and implement family violence policies and protocols: First National Bank of Omaha Credit Card Center, Kearney Clinic, Mid-Nebraska Community Action, Liberty Cleaners, Curtis and Associates, Kearney Public Schools, Cash Wa Distributing, and Kearney

BCCHP Grant Funding Received -- $93,930.25

• 1997: Buffalo County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate): $4,000
• 1997: Child Abuse and Domestic Violence Survey: $250
• 1997: Workplace Domestic Violence Awareness Campaign: $728
• 1997: Family Centered Services Family Violence Campaign: $7,800
• 1998: Buffalo County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate): $5,000
• 1998: Domestic Violence Candlelight Vigil: $1,500
• 1998: Domestic Violence Awareness Campaign: $2,500
• 1999: Domestic Violence Candlelight Vigil: $1,015.25
• 1999: Family Violence, Its Impact on the Workplace Workshop: $1,140
• 2000: Buffalo County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate): $20,000
• 2000: Community Domestic Violence Education Project: $11,000
• 2000: Buffalo County Batterers Intervention Program (BIP): $20,000
• 2000: Child Abuse / Domestic Violence Education Workplace Workshops: $4,294
• 2000: Buffalo County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate): $5,000
• 2001: Buffalo County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate): $5,000
• 2001: Buffalo County Batterers Intervention Program (BIP): $2,500
• 2001: Family Advocacy Network Conference: $2,203

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Immunization Goal - Influenza Age 65 and Older:

To achieve a 75% influenza immunization rate among adults age 65 and older in the county by 2001. Baseline as of 1995: 64.8% of those 65 and older have been immunized for influenza (Source: BRFS). Status as of 12/31/01: 54% have been immunized (Source BRFS 2000). top

Immunization Goal - Infants Ages 0-2:

To increase to 90% the Buffalo County infants, ages 0-2, who have been minimally immunized (DTP / Td, Polio, MMR) by 2001 as measured by those using public immunization clinics. Baseline as of 1995: Of those children aged 0 - 2 years immunized at public immunization clinics in an eight county region including Buffalo County, 81% have been minimally immunized with the 4:3:1 series. This includes (1) MMR, (3) Oral Polio, and (4) DPT (Source: Don Kross, NDOH 1995) Baseline reflects counties of Buffalo, Phelps, Dawson, Frontier, Furnace, Gosper, Harlan, Kearney. Status as of 12/31/01: Not meeting this goal. 89.24% of infants 0-24 months in the sample group are current on immunizations however, sample group does not represent the population. Private clinic data is not reportable and not accessible.

• 1998-2000: Mid Nebraska Community Action coordinated a collaborative team to address adult and children immunizations, with the theme "Be Wise Immunize". To increase immunizations the following actions were taken:
  • A part-time coordinator was hired.
  • Evening Clinic opened.
  • Additional clinics held in July and August.
  • Increased advertising for adult and children's clinics.
  • Buffalo County immunization computer information separated from other counties.
  • Provided publicity and transportation for adult immunizations.
  • Added additional adult clinic at Elm Creek Medical Clinic.
  • Added 2 additional late afternoon clinics.
  • Clinic appointment system implemented.
  • MNCA staff trained to provide immunizations.
  • All public immunization records on computer.
• 2001: Formed a Goal Work Group to address issue of immunization of youth due to new immunizations regulations. The following organizations are represented on the Goal Work Group: Mid Nebraska Community Action, Kearney Clinic, Family Practice Associates, Elm Creek-Amherst-SEM School Nurse, Gibbon School Nurse, Kearney Public Schools Nurse, ESU10 School Health Nurse and Nebraska Health and Human Services. Additional activities included:
  • Computer system administrator hired.
  • Computer records made available to schools and medical clinics.
  • Increased ability to store additional vaccine safely.
  • Transportation to adult "flu shot" clinics increased with use of R.Y.D.E.
  • Publicity for adults' clinics increased.
• 2002: Increased use of computer systems facilitated "paperless" clinics, automated recalls, physician summaries and easy access to immunization records at requested by parents.
• 2002: Publicity regarding adult and children's immunizations increased to include billboards and distribution of promotional materials.

BCCHP Grant Funding Received -- $33,682

• 1998: Be Wise Immunize Campaign: $11,370
• 2000: Be Wise Immunize Campaign: $8,440
• 2001: Be Wise Immunize Campaign: $13,87

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Maintaining Independence of Older Adults Goal:

To increase community awareness of community-based and in-home support systems for dependent older adults and caregiving families by 3% per year for 5 years after the baseline is established. Baseline as of 1997: 66%of dependent older adults are aware of availability of services and are able to access the services in the community. Target for 2001: 74.3% of dependent older adults are aware of availability of services and are able to access the services in the community. Status as of 12/31/01: Results pending. Update to baseline to be completed in 2001.

• 1997: Baseline established. A survey of adults 50+ years, 66% of adults were aware of services and able to access services in their communities.
• 1997: Completed an Asset Map.
• 1997-2001: Community Education Campaign
• 2001: The Aging Services Coalition hosted the first Health Fair for seniors in Buffalo County. Mary Pipher, Ph.D. a Nebraska psychologist was the keynote speaker.
• 2001: The Aging Services Coalition broke ground in building the first true collaborative project between for-profits and non-profits by coordinating a non-profit component to the Kearney Hub's Prime Time Festival. The Coalition received BCCHP grant funding to secure keynote speaker: Joan Burney and provide transportation to the event.
• 2002: 72% of adults 50+ years re-surveyed were aware of services in their community.

BCCHP Grant Funding Received -- $16,200

• 1998: Volunteer Recruitment of Interfaith Caregivers: $10,000
• 1999: Senior Health Fair: $5,000
• 2001: Prime Festival: $1,200

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Reduce Obesity Goal:

As measured by the Body Mass Index (BMI), Buffalo County will reduce its incidence of overweight residents (45-65) by 2.5% by 2001. Baseline as of 1995: 37.5% of Buffalo County residents (45-65) are overweight as measured by the Body Mass Index. Target by 2001: 36.6% Status as of 12/31/01: 48.2% of Buffalo County residents (45-65) are overweight as measured by the Body Mass Index. This is 10.7% higher than the baseline and 11.6% higher than the 2001 target. (Source: BRFS 00)

• 1998: BCCHP grant funding assisted Kearney Public Schools in targeting nutritional education to 3 rd and 5 th graders.
• 1999: Formed Obesity Goal Work Group.
• 1999: Developing support systems for overweight youth.
• 1999: BCCHP grant funding assisted in developing curriculum to instill healthy lifestyle habits in middle school youth at Horizon Middle School.
• Funded nutrition component of 1999 Bike Rodeo.
• 2001: BCCHP grant funding assisted in the Horizon Middle School Health Fair.

BCCHP Grant Funding Received -- $8,870

• 1998: Promoting Safe Cycling and Exercise Habits in Young People: $820
• 1998: Obesity in Children: $1,600
• 1999: Horizon Middle School Obesity Project: $5,000
• 2001: Sunrise Middle School - Healthy Happenings Health Fair: $1,450

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Teenage Smoking Tobacco Use Goal:

Reduce the incidence of smoking among 11 th graders to 12% from the current baseline rate by 2001. Baseline as of 1995: 16% of the 11 th grade boys smoke cigarettes. 20% of the 11 th grade girls smoke cigarettes. Status as of 12/31/01: Currently 26.1% of 11 th graders use tobacco products (28.7% of the 11 th grade boys and 23.6% of the 11 th grade girls)(Source BRFS 2000). Teenage Smokeless Tobacco Use Goal: Reduce to 12% the incidence of male smokeless tobacco use among 11 th graders from the current baseline rate by 2001. Baseline as of 1995: 22% of 11 th grade boys use smokeless tobacco. Status as of 12/31/01: 25.7% of 11 th grade males in Buffalo County use smokeless tobacco (Source BRFS 2000).

• 1996: The Buffalo County Tobacco Free Coalition was designated the BCCHP Teen Tobacco Goal Work Group.
• 1997: Completed Asset Mapping of Tobacco.
• 1998: Designed a three year action plan to tackle Teen Tobacco.
• 1998: Conducted a Retailer Compliance Check. 43% of Buffalo County retailers were non-complaint.
• 1998: City Ordinances Passed in Kearney and Gibbon regarding minor in possession of tobacco.
• 1999 - 2000: Girls and Boys Little League in Buffalo County receive smokeless tobacco prevention programs.
• 1999 to present: Advocates for state legislation to raise tobacco tax in Nebraska.
• 2000: Funding for prevention education through Tri-City Storm. Distributed Tri-City Storm poster to area schools and hockey fans.
• 2000: A Tobacco Diversion program and Cessation Program available at Kearney Public Schools.
• 2000: Sponsored county schools to attend Teen Take On Tobacco Rally in Lincoln.
• 2001: Established Tobacco Prevention Resource Library. Materials in library are available to schools and organizations to check out.
• 2001: Sponsored booth at "Take School by Storm" presented by the Tri-City Arena for area middle school students.
• 2001 - 2002: Designed vehicular environmental tobacco smoke brochures in English and Spanish that have been distributed countywide. "I Drive, I Smoke" "I Ride, I Choke". Second hand smoke radio ads produced by Ravenna Jr. High Students and sponsored by Buffalo County Tobacco Free Coalition.
• 2001 - 2003: Received funding through Tobacco Free Nebraska and Nebraska Health and Human Services from Nebraska's Tobacco Settlement Funds for tobacco prevention programming in schools and the community.
• 2001: Set goals to 1) prevent the initiation of teenage tobacco use and 2) reduction of second hand smoke per Tobacco Free Nebraska Funding.
• 2001: Continued poster sponsorship with Tri-City Storm - "Stick Tobacco in the Penalty Box".
• 2001: Implemented "No Tobacco Week" in 8 of the county's middle and high schools.
• 2001: Contributing partner of "Teaming Up for a Drug Free Community".
• 2001: Received $500 from "World No Tobacco Day" for Spanish Billboard.
• 2001: Conducted Operation Butt Count.
• 2001: Tracking smoke free restaurants. Printed a brochure of smoke free restaurants in Buffalo County as well as advertisements congratulating restaurants.
• 2001: Hired part-time staff for the Buffalo County Tobacco Free Coalition.
• 2001: Approached Kearney Park and Recreation Board to pass ordinance for smoke free ball fields.
• 2001: TNT curriculum provided for Pleasanton, Kearney Catholic High School, and Gibbon.
• 2001: Kearney Public Schools Tobacco Free conducted Operation Storefront.
• 2001: Designed a five-year action plan to tackle Teen Tobacco focusing on ETS (Environmental Tobacco Smoke)

Teen Tobacco Use

• 2001: Conducted a survey of cars with adult smokers with children as passengers conducted at 2 nd Avenue in Kearney.
• 2001: Implementing tobacco prevention programs for Kearney Soccer League.
• 2001: Posted Tobacco Free messages on billboards in Kearney area as a part of the Coalition's Tobacco Free promotional campaign.
• 2002: Sponsored 3 county schools to attend "Teens Take on Tobacco Rally" in Lincoln.
• 2002: Sumner Eddyville Miller and Ravenna Youth awarded $100,000 Nebraska Tobacco Grants.

BCCHP Grant Funding Received -- $19,301

• 1997: Reduction in Teen Tobacco Use: $6,500
• 1998: Kearney Public Schools (Elementary) Tobacco Use Awareness: $1,000
• 1999: Prevention of Smokeless Tobacco Products by Pre-adolescent and Adolescents: $700
• 1999: Summer 2000 Girls Little League No-Tobacco: $1,000
• 2000: Youth Tobacco Prevention Program with Tri-City Storm: $3,438
• 2001: Buffalo County Schools No-Tobacco Week: $800
• 2001: Tobacco Free Billboards: $825
• 2001: VIPP (Violence Intervention and Prevention Program): $5,038

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Goals Without Current Measurable Data

Affordable Housing Goal:

By the year 2001, there will be an adequate number of housing units for the low to moderate income population as evidenced by data to be gathered in an updated housing survey. The survey is to be completed no later than January 1998. Baseline as of 1997: Hanna: Keelan Associates conducted a housing study for the 1997 Kearney House Market. Per the study there is a need for an additional 1,465 low to moderate income (LMI) housing units (730 owner and 735 rental units) by 2002. Based upon the capacity of Kearney to create new housing units, the community should strive to develop up to 70% of this need in the next 5 years, which equals 1,025.5 housing units by 2002. Status as of 12/31/01: Survey completed in 1997. Number of units needed identified for attainment by 2002. Result pending next housing survey.

• 1997: Conducted Kearney housing study to establish baseline.
• 2000: Kearney Area Homeless and Housing Coalition to granted status of BCCHP Affordable Housing Goal Work Group.
• 2001: Developing a county-wide housing study.
• 2001: Researching a livable wage for Kearney area.
• 2001: Developed a tracking system to monitor the number of near homeless in Buffalo County.
• 2002: Researching a Community Development Council Model for Buffalo County.

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Water Quality Goal:

All Buffalo County residents shall have access to drinking water that meets or exceeds minimal standards of safe drinking water quality as measured by the Nebraska State Health Department in the following areas: Contaminant Max. Cont'd. Level Total Nitrate and Nitrite 10 ppm Volatile Organic Chemicals Varies by VOC Status as of 12/31/00: Goal achieved for all drinking water mandated to be measured by the Nebraska State Health Department. Status of private wells not mandated to be measured is unknown.

• 1996: Formed a Goal Work Group around Water Quality with the following organizations represented: Buffalo County Extension Service, City of Kearney, Lawn Builders, and NPPD.
• 1997: Completed an Asset Map.
• 1997: Public education campaign through Kearney water bill.
• 1998 and 1999: Earned 2 annual Groundwater Guardian Awards.
• 1999: Researched model for water quality education, preservation and environmental pollution. Researched a model by the Lincoln Lancaster Health Department.

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