By KHI News Service
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City (HCF) is seeking applicants for its 2014 Healthy Communities Leadership Academy. Qualified individuals and agencies should be working toward creating environments that support healthy eating and physical activities and reduce exposure to tobacco.

The Leadership Academy was developed by HCF in 2013 to develop local expertise to effect changes in policy and community environments for the uninsured and underserved.

“HCF is committed to support equity-focused efforts that mobilize communities to change their policies, systems and environments to improve access to healthy eating, active living and reduce exposure to tobacco,” said Adriana Pecina, HCF program officer. “The goal of our Healthy Communities Leadership Academy is to build community capacity as we continue to work toward policy and system changes.”

The yearlong leadership academy will help participants deepen their knowledge, understanding and practice in four areas: civic leadership, healthy eating and active lifestyles (HEAL) policy and system change, community collaboration and resource leveraging.

“Although the focus of this academy is on the individual, participants are expected to bring what they learn back to their organization and community,” said Brenda Calvin, HCF program officer.

Those interested are encouraged to learn more about the Healthy Communities Leadership Academy or apply by noon July 31. For more information, call (816) 241-7006.