15 YEARS OF COMMUNITY BUILDING 15 IMPACTS IMPACTS: The degree to which the study elevated regional awareness of the effect of educational needs, mental health, and housing issues on children’s ability to achieve in school was an important outcome. A county mental health tax was adopted by the Walla Walla Board of County Commissioners, which generates over $1 million each year for mental health services in Walla Walla County. As one participant noted, “The County used evidence generated by the public to really address a community need.” The Walla Walla Valley Early Learning Coalition used the study report to support its successful application for multiple grants, securing funding from local and state foundations. The Health Center located in Walla Walla also used the study report to support its successful grant applications. IMPACTS: This study elevated the awareness of Value-Added agricultural opportunities and entrepreneurial issues. Decision makers were convened to explore opportunities and find new ways to work together. Advocates were recruited to continue promoting the study’s recommendations. A public agency’s executive director described the study as “completely validating everything we were thinking about the agricultural impact on the community”, and they have shared the study “a lot.” This study provided support during development of Blue Mountain Station, an artisan food center, in Dayton. Enhancing the Educational Attainment of Our Region’s Children 2008 - 2011 TOPIC: “How can the region best coordinate its educational, mental health and housing stability services to improve the educational attainment of its children?” Optimizing Resources: Value-Added Agriculture 2009 - 2012 TOPIC: “How can the region’s economic viability be enhanced through the creation of valueadded businesses using agricultural resources?” Study Committee Report Co-Chairs: Mari Prieto Steven Wooley Implementation Task Force Report Chair: Mark James Study Committee Report Chair: Roger Bairstow Implementation Task Force Report Chair: Robert Zagelow
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