Small changes in how we eat and move can lead to a lifetime of better health. Our programs provide the tools, recipes, and community support you need to prevent chronic disease and feel your best every day.

A. Featured Fitness Program: L.I.F.T. (Lifelong Improvements through Fitness Together) is our signature group strength-training program designed for all fitness levels.

• The Focus: Improving strength, mobility, and posture while learning about healthy food options in a supportive group setting.
• Cost: FREE to the public.
• Location: New London Nutrition Site (114 West Gold St., New London, NC 28127).
• Spring/Summer 2026 Session: This group meets twice weekly from 10:15 AM – 11:00 AM on the following dates:
  • April: 6, 9, 13, 16, 23, 27, 30
  • May: 4, 7, 11, 14, 28
  • June: 1, 4

Action: Contact FCS Agent Hayley Cowell at 704-983-3987 with any questions.

B. Featured Nutrition Program: Med Instead of Meds

Learn the "Mediterranean Way" of eating to reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes through our two local series.

1. Eat the Med Way: 2026 Monthly Cooking Series
Join FCS Agent Hayley Cowell for a hands-on journey through the Mediterranean lifestyle. Each class covers one of the "7 Steps" with a specific seasonal theme.

When: 2nd Tuesday of every month | 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM

Where: Stanly County Public Library – Meeting Room (133 E Main St, Albemarle)

Cost: FREE (Registration recommended)

Action: Call the library at (704) 986-3755 to register.

Resources: Check out the Med Instead of Meds Recipe Hub for meal inspiration and the full 7-step guide.

C. The Golden Shoe Program (2026 Season Wrap-Up)

Thank you to everyone who participated in our 2026 community walking initiative! This program is offered collaboratively by the Stanly Collaborative Partners in Health coalition to encourage residents of all ages to stay active and enjoy our local recreational areas.

Season Status: The 2026 hunt has officially concluded. We enjoyed seeing so many families exploring our local parks this year!

Stay Tuned: Our 2027 season will kick off in March 2027.

Keep Moving: Continue visiting our local parks to keep hitting your step goals all year long!

Visit our Stanly County Partners in Health Facebook Page to see this year's winners and their "Golden Shoe" finds.

Participating Parks The following parks throughout the county participated in this year's program:

• West Badin
• Badin Recreation
• Chuck Morehead
• City Lake
• Locust
• Norwood
• Oakboro
• Richfield
• Rock Creek
• New London
• Stanfield