Randy Young, TLIA President
Last month, I invited residents to write this column for me. Here are two commentaries I received. I appreciate the time and effort to comment and encourage others to write your thoughts when inspired.
Contributed by Andrew Milne, TL resident
As a health teacher I have conversations with my students on a daily basis and encourage them to think about the impact of their choices and behaviors upon their health. But health is more than just encouraging healthy decision making, promoting communication skills, analyzing influences and setting healthy goals, etc. Today’s students are encouraged to consider not only their own health but also the health of others. When discussing inequity in health, I ask my students to think, often for the first time, about the role that their community plays upon their health, which inevitably has me thinking about my own community.
Tower Lakes is not only a wonderful place in which to live and raise families, it also plays a large role in shaping our health. Think about the facilities that surround us, each one making it easier for us to socialize and be active – the list of available activities is long, each one improving our physical, mental and social health. Our kids can paddle and swim surrounded by lifeguards and neighbors, each one looking out for the safety of our young ones. Our prized asset, the lakes, are managed responsibly and kept free of pollution, and other special interest groups not only keep us connected but serve to improve our environment.
Our crime levels are low, we have a friendly and effective police service and we don’t have to worry about our safety as much as many other communities. We have a strong sense of trust within our community, and I tell my students that strong ties and trust among people within neighborhoods is associated with better health.
Volunteerism within our community is strong, and many adults give their time for the improvement of the environment and to others. We all have the opportunity to contribute to the betterment of our community. We can serve on committees, coach sports to kids, host guests for the progressive dinner or sign up to run an event over July 4th. This willingness to give back to our community is a great way to model the behavior that we expect of our younger residents, and the visibility of positive role models is another strength of Tower Lakes. I tell my students that children in supportive neighborhoods, with visible role models are more likely to receive adult guidance and less likely to engage in health-damaging behaviors.
As I reflect on how communities shape our health I am thankful for my community and for those individuals who put time and effort into making Tower Lakes a place of which I am proud to call home.
A second contributor:
I lived in Tower Lakes for over 10 years and recently moved to the western suburbs to be closer to work. I didn’t realize until I moved away how much you have done as president of our homeowner’s association. I wish I would have told you of my appreciation for all you’ve done for our community. I wish I would have volunteered more. I don’t know any of my new neighbors. It’s really sad. I hope your dogs are well. Sincerely, D.M.