Iowa City Chamber urges community to register for Blue Zones support

The Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce is leading the Iowa City area to become a Blue Zones Community. The goal of the Blue Zones Project is to position Iowa as first in the nation for well-being as measured by the Gallup-Healthways Well Being Index.

The Iowa City area is vying to become one of ten designated Blue Zones communities, for the opportunity to receive direct assistance from national experts to become a healthier and happier community.

“The cost of healthcare is a significant burden on businesses,” said Nancy Quellhorst, president and CEO of the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce. “Reducing healthcare costs will allow business owners to invest in our local economy. The initiative will also result in a more productive workforce.”

The Chamber will take the first step in securing the designation by submitting a statement of interest. Select applicants will be invited to submit a Blue Zones Project application.  Assisting the Chamber with the Blue Zones process will be Mercy, the University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City Community School District, United Way, cities of Coralville, Iowa City and North Liberty, Hy-Vee, University of Iowa Hospitals, and others.

The Chamber encourages citizens to help bring Blue Zones principles to our community by registering support at www.bluezonesproject.com. Those who are interested in participating in the initiative should contact the Chamber at (319) 337-9637 or info@iowacityarea.com.

The Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce, on behalf of more than 1,000 members, actively fosters a better business environment through community and economic development, member services and public policy advocacy.