The Watauga County entity liable for public well being companies within the Boone, North Carolina space gives a variety of packages and initiatives geared toward defending and bettering neighborhood well-being. These companies embody areas corresponding to illness prevention, well being training, environmental well being, and medical care. An instance of their work contains administering vaccinations, conducting restaurant inspections, and offering sources for maternal and youngster well being.
The group’s efforts are important for making certain a wholesome inhabitants and stopping the unfold of illness inside Watauga County. Its advantages lengthen to selling wholesome existence, addressing well being disparities, and responding to public well being emergencies. Tracing its roots to state and county-level public well being mandates, it has advanced to deal with the particular well being wants and challenges of the local people over time.
This established entity is a essential element of the native healthcare infrastructure. Its obligations are quite a few, starting from offering direct medical care to broader community-level interventions. Subsequent data will elaborate additional on the particular companies and packages supplied, specializing in key initiatives designed to reinforce the well being and security of native residents.
1. Vaccination clinics
The story of safeguarding neighborhood well being continuously unfolds inside the partitions of vaccination clinics, with the “boone nc well being division” serving as a central determine on this narrative. These clinics, quite than being mere factors of medical service, stand as cornerstones of proactive public well being protection. A cause-and-effect relationship is obvious: the implementation of normal vaccination clinics leads on to decreased incidence of preventable illnesses inside Watauga County. For instance, throughout a latest measles outbreak scare, the power of the “boone nc well being division” to quickly set up and execute vaccination clinics successfully contained the unfold, stopping a possible public well being disaster.
The significance of vaccination clinics as a core operate inside the construction of the “boone nc well being division” can’t be overstated. They aren’t merely an added service; they embody a dedication to preventative care. Think about the influenza season. The “boone nc well being division’s” seasonal flu shot clinics provide an important service, notably to susceptible populations such because the aged and people with compromised immune methods. These clinics present not solely vaccinations, but additionally important details about influenza prevention and administration, additional empowering the neighborhood to guard themselves.
Understanding the sensible significance of this connection is paramount. A well-functioning vaccination program, coordinated by the “boone nc well being division,” interprets instantly right into a more healthy, extra resilient neighborhood. Challenges stay, together with addressing vaccine hesitancy and making certain equitable entry to companies throughout the county. But, the continuing dedication to those clinics represents a elementary funding within the long-term well being and well-being of Watauga County, demonstrating a dedication to proactive public well being administration.
2. Environmental security
The narrative of neighborhood well being in Watauga County is deeply interwoven with the vigilance surrounding environmental security, with the “boone nc well being division” enjoying a essential position as its guardian. Each stream monitored, each restaurant inspected, each septic system permitted contributes to a bigger story: the safeguarding of the setting to guard the well being of the residents. When pollution seep into the water provide, or unsafe meals dealing with practices endanger diners, the “boone nc well being division” acts as the primary line of protection, investigating and mitigating the hazards. The cause-and-effect is obvious: a proactive method to environmental security instantly ends in fewer cases of waterborne diseases and meals poisoning outbreaks.
Think about the instance of a latest heavy rainfall that led to considerations about potential nicely water contamination in rural components of Watauga County. The “boone nc well being division” instantly mobilized, offering water testing companies and providing steering on disinfection procedures. This speedy response not solely prevented a possible outbreak of waterborne illness but additionally fostered belief and confidence within the organizations dedication to defending public well being. The environmental well being specialists conduct routine inspections of meals service institutions, making certain compliance with sanitation laws and educating restaurant workers on protected meals dealing with practices. With out these preventative measures, the danger of foodborne sickness would considerably improve, impacting the well being and economic system of the county.
In essence, the “boone nc well being division’s” dedication to environmental security isn’t merely a regulatory operate; it represents a profound funding within the long-term well-being of the neighborhood. Whereas challenges stay, corresponding to addressing rising environmental threats and making certain equitable entry to wash sources, the continuing dedication to those important companies underscores its unwavering dedication to constructing a more healthy and extra resilient Watauga County. It is a steady effort to guard the land, water, and air that maintain the neighborhood, recognizing {that a} wholesome setting is key to a wholesome inhabitants.
3. Illness surveillance
Inside the quiet mountain neighborhood, an unseen enemy lurks: the delicate creep of illness. Defending the inhabitants from this menace is the diligent work of illness surveillance, with the “boone nc well being division” performing as its eyes and ears. This isn’t a passive commentary, however an lively investigation. When a cluster of bizarre signs seems on the native hospital, or absenteeism spikes on the elementary college, it’s the “boone nc well being division” that steps in. The trigger and impact are plain: efficient surveillance permits for early detection, enabling speedy response to include outbreaks earlier than they spiral uncontrolled. With out this vigilance, a localized concern might shortly escalate right into a widespread disaster.
The significance of illness surveillance as a core operate of the “boone nc well being division” is rooted within the understanding that prevention is paramount. Think about the annual influenza season. The “boone nc well being division” screens flu exercise by way of native clinics and hospitals, monitoring an infection charges and figuring out strains circulating in the neighborhood. This data is then used to tell vaccination methods and public well being messaging. When a novel pathogen emerges, the surveillance system turns into much more essential. Throughout a latest outbreak of a drug-resistant bacterial an infection, the division traced the supply to a selected healthcare facility, implementing strict an infection management measures that prevented additional unfold to susceptible populations.
In essence, the effectiveness of this monitoring system is not only an instructional idea; it has tangible penalties for the well being and well-being of the complete neighborhood. Challenges stay, together with securing ample funding for sources, defending affected person privateness whereas gathering information, and addressing public skepticism about public well being interventions. But, the dedication to steady surveillance underscores a elementary precept: that defending the well being of Watauga County requires fixed vigilance, speedy response, and a deep understanding of the ever-evolving panorama of infectious illness. This proactive method is the bedrock of a wholesome and resilient neighborhood.
4. Well being training
Inside the rustic appeal of the Appalachian Mountains, the narrative of neighborhood well being unfolds not solely in clinics and hospitals, but additionally in school rooms, neighborhood facilities, and thru the outreach efforts. Right here, “Well being training” emerges as an important instrument within the fingers of the “boone nc well being division,” a instrument not only for treating sickness, however for stopping it. The connection is obvious: empower the neighborhood with data, and the direct result’s more healthy decisions, fewer preventable illnesses, and a extra resilient inhabitants. The absence of this data, then again, leaves residents susceptible to misinformation and unhealthy practices. Think about a state of affairs the place native farmers are unaware of the very best practices for stopping foodborne diseases when promoting their produce on the farmers market, or when younger mother and father lack the data to correctly care for his or her newborns.
The significance of well being training as a cornerstone of the “boone nc well being division” is finest illustrated by way of tangible examples. Think about the division’s initiative to teach youngsters concerning the dangers of substance abuse. By collaborating with native faculties and neighborhood organizations, the “boone nc well being division” developed evidence-based prevention packages that equip younger individuals with the talents to withstand peer stress and make knowledgeable selections about their well being. In one other occasion, in response to rising charges of diabetes within the county, the division launched a collection of workshops on wholesome consuming and lively residing, empowering residents to handle their situation and forestall problems. Throughout these workshops, participant study diabetes administration by way of medical vitamin, bodily exercise, remedy, and monitoring and problem-solving expertise. The division’s workers of registered dietitians and licensed diabetes educators play important roles throughout these packages. These are usually not remoted incidents; they symbolize a sustained effort to enhance the well being literacy of the neighborhood and foster a tradition of wellness.
The sensible significance of this understanding extends far past particular person conduct. When the neighborhood is well-informed about well being points, it’s higher geared up to advocate for insurance policies and sources that assist public well being. It fosters a way of shared duty and collective motion. Whereas challenges persist, corresponding to reaching underserved populations and addressing deeply ingrained well being behaviors, the dedication of the “boone nc well being division” to well being training stays unwavering. Its efforts echo the assumption that data is energy, and that empowering the neighborhood with data is the best option to construct a more healthy future for all.
5. Maternal assist
Within the lives of expectant and new moms residing inside Watauga County, a silent ally exists within the type of accessible assist. Inside the “boone nc well being division,” maternal assist emerges as a beacon of hope, providing essential sources and steering throughout a transformative interval. This connection, nonetheless, isn’t merely transactional; it represents a concerted effort to domesticate wholesome pregnancies, protected deliveries, and thriving households. The impact of devoted maternal assist reverberates throughout generations, breaking cycles of poverty and selling a brighter future for each mom and youngster. When moms obtain the care and data they want, the direct consequence is improved start outcomes, decreased charges of postpartum despair, and strengthened household bonds. The absence of this assist leaves susceptible moms remoted, rising their threat of problems and jeopardizing the well-being of their infants.
The significance of maternal assist as a essential element of the “boone nc well being division” is illuminated by way of tales of native ladies. Think about the case of a younger, first-time mom going through sudden challenges throughout her being pregnant. By way of the division’s residence visiting program, she acquired customized assist from a registered nurse, who supplied training on prenatal care, vitamin, and childbirth preparation. This assist helped her navigate the complexities of being pregnant and empowered her to advocate for her personal well being and the well being of her child. Through the nurse’s go to, she was in a position to assess the mom’s bodily and psychological well being. She observed that the mother was exhibiting indicators of despair. Nurse instantly referred her to psychological well being specialist. The nurse gave her all types of help that she wants. In one other occasion, a refugee mom who lacks the sources to assist her new born child was related with the supplemental vitamin program for Girls, Infants, and Youngsters (WIC), making certain she had entry to wholesome meals for herself and her child. These interventions not solely addressed fast wants but additionally constructed a basis for long-term success.
Finally, the efficacy of this assist is not only a theoretical idea; it interprets into more healthy moms, more healthy infants, and a stronger neighborhood. Whereas challenges stay, corresponding to reaching rural populations and addressing systemic inequities, the dedication of the “boone nc well being division” to maternal assist is a testomony to the assumption that each mom and youngster deserves the chance to thrive. It’s a steady effort to nurture the following era and create a extra equitable and compassionate society, one mom and one youngster at a time.
6. Neighborhood outreach
Within the mountainous terrain of Watauga County, the place communities are sometimes separated by winding roads and cultural nuances, the “boone nc well being division’s” attain extends far past its bodily partitions. Neighborhood outreach is the bridge, connecting the division’s important companies with the people and households who want them most. With out this lively engagement, sources would stay untapped, data unshared, and the promise of public well being unfulfilled. The trigger and impact are stark: a strong outreach program ends in elevated entry to care, improved well being outcomes, and a extra equitable distribution of sources. The reverse is equally true restricted outreach perpetuates well being disparities and leaves susceptible populations behind. Think about a state of affairs by which a senior citizen, remoted in a rural neighborhood and missing transportation, struggles to entry essential medical care. With out proactive outreach efforts, this particular person could stay unaware of accessible sources, resulting in a decline in well being and high quality of life.
The significance of neighborhood outreach as an integral operate of the “boone nc well being division” is obvious in its sensible functions. As an illustration, the division’s cell well being unit travels to underserved communities, offering on-site well being screenings, vaccinations, and training. These efforts are tailor-made to the particular wants of every neighborhood, making an allowance for cultural sensitivities and language boundaries. Through the COVID-19 pandemic, the division’s outreach groups performed a pivotal position in disseminating details about testing and vaccination, reaching people who could not have had entry to mainstream media. In some circumstances, groups have been even in a position to arrange vaccination alternatives at native shops and markets, additional permitting residents to soundly and correctly handle themselves and their households. Additional examples embody partnerships with native church buildings and neighborhood organizations to host well being festivals and workshops, bringing well being training on to the individuals. These initiatives are usually not merely add-ons; they’re important to making sure that public well being companies are accessible to all residents of Watauga County.
Finally, the effectiveness of this method isn’t merely a matter of statistics; it’s about constructing belief, fostering relationships, and empowering communities to take management of their very own well being. Whereas challenges persist, corresponding to securing ample funding and overcoming logistical boundaries, the dedication of the “boone nc well being division” to neighborhood outreach stays unwavering. It’s a recognition that public well being is not only about treating sickness, however about making a society the place everybody has the chance to thrive. It’s a steady journey, pushed by the assumption that by reaching out to each nook of Watauga County, a more healthy future may be constructed, one neighborhood at a time.
7. Emergency preparedness
Inside the serene panorama of Watauga County, the significance of meticulous planning and coordinated response turns into undeniably clear. The “boone nc well being division,” because the vanguard of public well-being, shoulders the duty of making ready the neighborhood for unexpected crises. It isn’t a query of if, however when, an emergency will strike, demanding a proactive stance to mitigate potential devastation and safeguard the well being and lives of the county’s residents. From pure disasters to public well being emergencies, the division’s readiness shapes the neighborhood’s resilience.
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Strategic Planning and Coordination
The division engages in complete planning periods, collaborating with native, state, and federal businesses to develop emergency response protocols. This contains creating detailed plans for varied situations, corresponding to extreme climate occasions, illness outbreaks, and acts of terrorism. An actual-world instance could be the collaborative effort throughout a possible hurricane menace, the place the division coordinates with native hospitals, shelters, and legislation enforcement to make sure a seamless evacuation and provision of medical companies. The implication is a structured, coordinated response that minimizes chaos and maximizes the effectiveness of emergency companies.
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Useful resource Allocation and Administration
The “boone nc well being division” maintains a strategic stockpile of important medical provides, tools, and personnel. This useful resource allocation is essential within the fast aftermath of a catastrophe, making certain that healthcare suppliers have the instruments they should deal with the injured and forestall the unfold of illness. For instance, in the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, the division was liable for distributing private protecting tools (PPE) to healthcare staff and administering vaccines to the general public. Efficient useful resource administration is a direct determinant of the neighborhood’s capacity to deal with the health-related penalties of an emergency.
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Communication and Public Training
Efficient communication is paramount throughout any emergency, and the “boone nc well being division” performs a central position in disseminating correct and well timed data to the general public. This contains offering updates on the character of the emergency, issuing well being advisories, and providing steering on easy methods to keep protected. Think about the state of affairs of a water contamination occasion, the place the division would use varied channels, together with social media, press releases, and neighborhood conferences, to tell residents concerning the dangers and supply directions on easy methods to acquire protected ingesting water. Clear and constant communication helps to cut back panic, promote knowledgeable decision-making, and be sure that residents take applicable protecting measures.
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Coaching and Drills
Preparation is greater than coverage. To make sure environment friendly practices are in place, the well being division organizes common coaching periods and drills for its workers and neighborhood companions. This contains simulated emergency situations that check the response capabilities and determine areas for enchancment. Think about a full-scale train simulating a mass casualty occasion at a neighborhood college, the place the division collaborates with first responders, hospitals, and volunteers to observe triage, remedy, and evacuation procedures. Usually scheduled and totally carried out coaching enhances the division’s readiness and improves the effectiveness of its response to real-world emergencies.
These coordinated efforts exemplify the “boone nc well being division’s” dedication to safeguarding the well being and well-being of Watauga County’s residents. Emergency preparedness isn’t merely a guidelines of duties; it’s an ongoing technique of planning, coaching, and collaboration. The group persistently strives to adapt and enhance its capabilities, recognizing that the neighborhood’s security is determined by its vigilance and preparedness.
8. Medical companies
Inside the framework of Watauga County’s healthcare system, the “boone nc well being division” stands as an important supplier of medical companies, making certain entry to care for people who would possibly in any other case fall by way of the cracks. The story of those companies is one in every of filling gaps, addressing disparities, and selling wellness inside a neighborhood the place sources may be restricted. The causal hyperlink between the supply of medical companies and improved public well being is plain: when people have entry to preventive care, remedy for power circumstances, and household planning sources, the general well being of the neighborhood improves. Within the absence of the division’s medical choices, many residents would face vital boundaries to care, resulting in poorer well being outcomes and elevated pressure on the broader healthcare system.
One instance of the division’s affect may be seen in its household planning clinic. For low-income ladies in Watauga County, this clinic gives entry to important reproductive well being companies, together with contraception, screenings for sexually transmitted infections, and prenatal care. These companies not solely empower ladies to make knowledgeable decisions about their reproductive well being, but additionally scale back charges of unintended pregnancies and enhance maternal and toddler well being outcomes. Equally, the division’s immunization clinic performs a essential position in stopping the unfold of vaccine-preventable illnesses. By providing vaccinations to youngsters and adults, the division protects the neighborhood from outbreaks and ensures that Watauga County stays a wholesome place to stay. In sure conditions, well being officers have been in a position to create a cell clinic the place they will attain a wider vary of the inhabitants as nicely.
The success of those efforts isn’t with out its challenges. The “boone nc well being division” continually navigates problems with funding, staffing, and entry to care in a rural and infrequently underserved neighborhood. Regardless of these obstacles, the division stays dedicated to offering high-quality medical companies to all residents of Watauga County, no matter their revenue, insurance coverage standing, or background. It’s a story of dedication, resilience, and a profound perception within the energy of public well being to remodel lives. The dedication exemplifies the understanding that wholesome people make up a wholesome neighborhood, and that entry to medical companies is a elementary proper, not a privilege.
Often Requested Questions Relating to Native Public Well being
The next addresses frequent inquiries surrounding the supply of public well being companies inside Watauga County. These questions symbolize considerations usually voiced by residents, and the solutions intention to make clear the position and obligations of the native company. Understanding these factors is essential for knowledgeable engagement with neighborhood well being initiatives.
Query 1: Why does the entity implement laws relating to meals security at eating places? Is that this an overreach of presidency energy?
The safeguarding of public well being mandates that sure requirements be maintained in meals preparation and dealing with. Historical past bears witness to the devastating penalties of unchecked foodborne diseases. These laws are usually not arbitrary; they’re born from classes realized from previous outbreaks and intention to forestall future tragedies. Routine inspections, whereas maybe inconvenient for some institutions, are essential to make sure that meals is ready and served in a way that minimizes the danger of contamination and sickness for all patrons.
Query 2: Why is it essential for the group to trace and monitor circumstances of infectious illnesses inside the neighborhood? Is not this a violation of private privateness?
Illness surveillance is a cornerstone of public well being safety. Whereas particular person privateness is paramount, the crucial to forestall the unfold of infectious illnesses necessitates the gathering and evaluation of knowledge. This data is used to determine outbreaks, observe tendencies, and implement management measures. The company adheres to strict protocols to guard the confidentiality of people whereas fulfilling its obligation to safeguard the broader neighborhood from potential epidemics. The stability between particular person privateness and collective security is a fragile one, however the historic file clearly demonstrates the need of illness surveillance in stopping widespread struggling and loss of life.
Query 3: What’s the reasoning behind the company’s involvement in selling vaccinations? Ought to people not have the liberty to decide on whether or not or to not be vaccinated?
Vaccinations are a cornerstone of preventative medication and have demonstrably eradicated or managed quite a few devastating illnesses all through historical past. Whereas particular person autonomy is revered, the choice to forgo vaccination has implications not just for oneself but additionally for the broader neighborhood, notably susceptible populations who can’t be vaccinated. The company’s promotion of vaccinations relies on scientific proof and a dedication to defending the collective well being of the neighborhood, not infringing upon particular person rights. It’s a matter of understanding the interconnectedness of public well being and the shared duty to guard each other.
Query 4: What particular companies can be found to low-income households in Watauga County?
Recognizing the well being disparities affecting susceptible populations, the entity provides a number of packages tailor-made to low-income households. These embody entry to reasonably priced or free vaccinations, maternal assist companies, dietary help by way of packages like WIC (Girls, Infants, and Youngsters), and sliding-scale charges for sure medical companies. The aim is to make sure that financial hardship doesn’t grow to be a barrier to accessing important healthcare and selling well-being. Reaching out to the company instantly is one of the simplest ways to find out eligibility and entry these important sources.
Query 5: How does the native division coordinate with different healthcare suppliers within the space?
The effectiveness of neighborhood well being efforts hinges on collaboration. Recognizing this, the “boone nc well being division” works in partnership with native hospitals, clinics, physicians, and different healthcare suppliers. These collaborative relationships contain sharing information, coordinating take care of sufferers, and creating joint initiatives to deal with urgent well being wants in the neighborhood. This contains taking part in neighborhood well being assessments, creating strategic plans, and dealing collectively throughout public well being emergencies. This cooperative method goals to offer a seamless and complete healthcare system for all residents.
Query 6: How can one grow to be extra concerned in supporting public well being initiatives inside Watauga County?
Neighborhood engagement is the lifeblood of efficient public well being. Alternatives exist for people to contribute their time, skills, and sources to advertise well being and well-being. Volunteering at native clinics or well being occasions, taking part in neighborhood well being assessments, advocating for insurance policies that assist public well being, and donating to native health-related organizations are all priceless methods to become involved. A robust public well being system depends on the lively participation and assist of an knowledgeable and engaged citizenry.
In summation, a complete understanding of how the group protects the wellness of residents requires greedy its objective and operation. Its operations are rooted in historic learnings, tailor-made to current wants, and proactive to make sure a more healthy future.
Subsequent data will delve into avenues for residents to collaborate with neighborhood wellness packages.
Safeguarding Neighborhood Well being
The next steering arises from years of expertise, derived from firsthand commentary of neighborhood wants and a devoted dedication to the well-being of Watauga County. These are usually not merely solutions, however quite actionable steps to bolster particular person and collective well being.
Tip 1: Embrace Preventative Care. Annual check-ups and really helpful screenings are cornerstones of well being upkeep. The “boone nc well being division” provides sources to navigate these preventative measures. Detectable illnesses discovered by way of these screenings are simpler to deal with.
Tip 2: Prioritize Immunizations. Vaccinations shield towards preventable illnesses, not solely safeguarding oneself but additionally shielding susceptible members of the neighborhood. Keep knowledgeable about really helpful vaccination schedules by way of the division’s sources. One much less sickness is one much less burden on native sources.
Tip 3: Follow Meals Security. Adhere to correct meals dealing with methods, each at residence and when eating out. Correct storage, cooking, and sanitation decrease the danger of foodborne diseases. The “boone nc well being division” routinely conducts restaurant inspections to make sure compliance with security requirements.
Tip 4: Keep Knowledgeable About Public Well being Alerts. Stay vigilant relating to potential well being threats, corresponding to outbreaks of infectious illnesses or environmental hazards. The “boone nc well being division” serves as a trusted supply of data throughout public well being emergencies. An knowledgeable public is an empowered public.
Tip 5: Interact in Common Bodily Exercise. Incorporate common train into each day routine, even in small increments. Bodily exercise strengthens the physique, improves psychological well-being, and reduces the danger of power illnesses. Watauga County provides quite a few alternatives for outside recreation and neighborhood health packages.
Tip 6: Search Psychological Well being Assist When Wanted. Psychological well-being is as essential as bodily well being. Do not hesitate to hunt skilled assist when going through challenges corresponding to stress, anxiousness, or despair. The “boone nc well being division” can present referrals to psychological well being companies.
Tip 7: Promote a Smoke-Free Surroundings. Tobacco use poses vital well being dangers, each to people who smoke and people uncovered to secondhand smoke. Assist smoke-free insurance policies and encourage cessation efforts inside the neighborhood. A smoke-free setting protects everybody.
Tip 8: Be Ready for Emergencies. Develop a plan for responding to potential emergencies, corresponding to extreme climate occasions or energy outages. The “boone nc well being division” gives sources and steering to assist households put together for varied situations. Preparedness could make all of the distinction in occasions of disaster.
These eight factors, although easy, symbolize a steadfast dedication to well being. Proactive decisions construct a stronger, more healthy, and extra resilient neighborhood. The well being division is a associate on this endeavor. These ideas, rigorously utilized, contribute considerably to the well-being of Watauga County.
Subsequent discussions will additional emphasize particular person actions to raise high quality of life for all.
A Legacy of Care
From the tranquil peaks surrounding Boone, North Carolina, a story of public well being unfolds. This exploration has ventured into the multifaceted realm of the entity, analyzing its position in vaccination clinics, environmental security, illness surveillance, neighborhood outreach, and past. It has highlighted the dedication to maternal assist, the essential side of well being training, the fixed state of preparation for emergencies, and the essential medical companies supplied. Every initiative, every program, stands as a testomony to the group’s dedication to the well-being of Watauga County’s residents.
The story doesn’t conclude with phrases on a web page, however continues within the each day lives of the neighborhood. It persists with each youngster inoculated, each restaurant inspected, and each residence go to carried out. It’s a permanent dedication to foster a spot the place well-being thrives, regardless of background or circumstance. Let each resident acknowledge and assist the vital contributions of this native asset. It’s critical {that a} collective effort of prevention and care ensures a vibrant, safe, and thriving future for the individuals of Watauga County.
