Building & Programming
The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center Healthy Community Center at 1600 E. Long St. on Columbus' Near East Side offers a variety of programs and services to improve the health and wellness of area residents.
Join us today
With so much to choose from and plenty of free, family-friendly options for every age and ability, we don’t think you’ll ever get bored.
You’re welcome to try just one activity or jump right in and sign up for more – we just want you to get started. Your participation doesn’t depend on your ability to pay either. All you need is the desire to get healthier.
Want to create a healthier lifestyle?
Creating new routines can be tough, so the Healthy Community Center exists to make it easier — and more fun — to learn about your health, get moving, make positive changes and stay motivated together.
Bring a friend, meet your neighbors and try all that we have to offer, including:
- Wellness activities
- A healthy cafe
- A teaching kitchen
- Urban gardening partnerships
- Earth-friendly/sustainability education and events
- Conference rooms for community gatherings
- Health education and screening for common concerns such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and healthy aging
Do you have a programming idea?
If you would like to submit a proposal for a class or event that relates to health and wellness, please send an email to hccinfo@osumc.edu. Include your idea, name and related organization (if there is one). The Healthy Community Center will review proposals once per quarter, so you may not receive a reply for up to three months.
- For questions about culinary-based programming, contact Laura Robertson Boyd at Laura.Robertson-Boyd@osumc.edu or 614-292-9664.
- For questions about health, wellness and fitness initiatives, contact Neal Davis at Neale.Davis@osumc.edu.
In partnership with
Our Team
Javonte McDonald
Director of The Ohio State Wexner Medical Center Healthy Community Center
Bridging community advocacy and strategic leadership, Javonte McDonald is deeply committed to cultivating equitable services. His journey underscores the importance of embracing diverse perspectives in effective community engagement. In his role as the Director of the Healthy Community Center, Javonte channels his passion towards envisioning a future where food equity is a cornerstone of community health. His strategic leadership transcends traditional boundaries, reflecting an unwavering belief in the transformative power of community collaboration.
Laura Robertson-Boyd
Senior Program Coordinator
Laura brings a wealth of experience in culinary and nutrition education to her role. Laura is leading the planning and execution of healthful cooking classes in the teaching kitchen, showcasing her passion for community outreach and wellness. Feel free to email her at Laura.Robertson-Boyd@osumc.edu or call 614-292-9664 to connect about culinary-based programming.
Neale Davis
Senior Program Coordinator
Neale is fueled by a drive for transformative change. Overseeing wellness programming at The Healthy Community Center, Neale has honed expertise in offering programs to enhance mental, emotional and physical well-being. Neale is committed to elevating community health and wellness. Reach out to Neale at Neale.Davis@osumc.edu to explore wellness initiatives together and make a lasting impact.
Joshua Joseph, MD
Medical Director of The Ohio State Wexner Medical Center Healthy Community Center
Dr. Joseph is recognized nationally for his work on academic, community, government and industry partnerships to advance health through community-based interventions. He has used his scientific and community engagement expertise as a leader for the Healthy Community Center, which focuses on nutrition and wellness on the Near East side of Columbus. The work of Dr. Joseph and his ACCELERATE research group has been featured nationally and internationally.