New approach connects Missouri families with health and wellness education, resources and referrals regardless of where they live.
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COLUMBIA, Mo. — Missouri families can now connect with the University of Missouri Family Impact Center from anywhere in the state through a new virtual model that expands access to health and wellness education, resources and referrals.
For more than a decade, the center served as a community resource in Columbia, bringing together university programs, community partners and students to support individuals and families through services focused on health, financial well-being, life skills and youth development. The new virtual model builds on that foundation while extending the center’s reach statewide, said Jo Britt-Rankin, executive director of the center.
The Family Impact Center will continue its mission of helping individuals and families improve their quality of life through lifelong learning and connections to trusted resources, Britt-Rankin said. Through online programs, coordinated referrals and collaboration with MU faculty, students and partners, the center can now serve Missourians regardless of location.
“After 12 years of growing the Family Impact Center in Columbia and serving Mid-Missouri, we felt it was time to expand our reach to all Missourians,” she said. “The virtual model lets us build on a strong foundation while connecting more families with educational opportunities and resources, particularly in rural and underserved communities.”
The center will offer live and on-demand programming in areas including:
- Nutrition education
- Physical activity and wellness
- Social and emotional health
- Preventive health education
Programs are available through webinars, online courses and recorded modules that allow participants to learn on their own schedules. A centralized website and referral system also help connect families with programs and services that fit their needs.
The Family Impact Center is strengthening referral pathways with programs including MedZou Community Health Clinic, NutriZou Nutrition Services, the Integrated Behavioral Health Center and Mizzou’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, helping participants find additional support when needed, Britt-Rankin said.
Accessibility remains a priority, she added. Mobile-friendly platforms, captioning and translation services, low-bandwidth options and recorded sessions help ensure that families can participate regardless of technology limitations or scheduling challenges.
“Technology gives us the opportunity to connect more Missourians with high-quality health and wellness education and make those resources easier to access,” Britt-Rankin said.
Learn more about the Family Impact Center.