B&D Consulting's Elizabeth Baney Volunteers for a Healthier Alexandria

Washington, D.C. (20-March-2009) — Elizabeth L. Baney, an advisor at B&D Consulting, works with health clients on government programs and regulations to expand business opportunities, but the Alexandria, Virginia, resident is equally passionate about helping her own community improve its health.

Baney is an active volunteer in the Partnership for Healthier Alexandria and a member of the coalition's Healthy Lifestyles Work Group, which became one of only 10 communities across the U.S. to receive a National Association of City and County Health Officials (NACCHO) grant this month.

The $40,000 ACHIEVE grant will help the Healthy Lifestyles Work Group of the Partnership for Healthier Alexandria plan and target more specific initiatives, including addressing and implementing a plan for childhood obesity. The funding also provides an opportunity for the community group to partner with the Early Childhood Commission and the Arlington/Alexandria School Readiness Council, as well as to provide group training on community approaches to encourage better nutrition and physical activity.

"As a resident of Alexandria, I see the direct impact the Partnership has on community health," Baney said. "From initiatives like encouraging smoke-free restaurant policies and hanging signs in public buildings reminding people to use the stairs, to systemic changes like addressing childhood obesity and preventing substance abuse, the Partnership improves public health and the quality of life for city residents. I am happy to be involved with this meritorious organization."

The Partnership for a Healthier Alexandria is a community coalition of nonprofit organizations, schools, municipal agencies, local businesses, government and community leaders and citizens joined together to promote and preserve a healthy Alexandria community. The Healthy Lifestyles Work Group is compiling results of community conversations, expert colloquiums and Kids & Gardens Round Table Discussions into an action plan.

Just recently, Baney helped the Partnership join the Alliance to Make US Healthiest. Founded by NACCHO, the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Alliance actively engages local, state and national entities to build the truly integrated 21st century health system required for the U.S. to become the healthiest nation in the world.

At B&D Consulting, Baney analyzes legislative and regulatory developments for health, insurance and life sciences clients. She provides public and legislative support to a variety of clients, including patient advocacy organizations, hospitals and pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device companies.