Health commissioner shares ‘Stronger Together’ plan with Malvern Rotary

Carroll County Health Commissioner Kelly Morris spoke to the Rotary Club of Malvern Monday, Oct. 27, about “Carroll County Stronger Together,” a new community health initiative led by the Carroll County General Health District in partnership with consultants from You Thrive.

Using a detailed handout, Morris explained the health district is required to complete a county health assessment every two years to identify and address mental and physical health challenges. After reviewing assessments dating back to 2013, the district developed the Carroll County Community Health Improvement Plan, which focuses on building a healthy, prosperous and resilient community. The plan emphasizes three key priorities: healthy living, access to care and mental health and substance abuse.

The urgency of these issues was underscored by a recent suicide in Malvern. “Input by everyone is important if this is going to be successful,” Morris told the club, stressing that while the health district is leading the effort, success will depend on collaboration among individuals, local government, businesses, organizations and churches.

The program is based on a Collective Impact Approach recommended by You Thrive, which relies on five key principles: a common agenda, a shared measurement system, mutually reinforcing activities, continuous communication and backbone support. Morris plans to share the model with more organizations across the county in the coming months to build support and engagement.

One major concern, she noted, is the effect of trauma—including violence, substance abuse, food insecurity, poverty and suicide—on residents across generations. Strengthening resilience in children, for example, can have lasting benefits later in life. “Carroll County Stronger Together” aims to bring greater awareness to these challenges and coordinate community resources to address them more effectively.

Morris, who has worked in public health for 31 years and served as Carroll County’s health commissioner for four, said she hopes the initiative will help the community take a more proactive approach to health and well-being. “This is a very loving county,” she said. “My hope is that we can do more for the benefit of everyone who makes their home here.”

The Rotary Club of Malvern also participated in the Halloween Trunk or Treat event Oct. 31 at the Mayle Homes Activity Center, joining more than 15 other groups to distribute snacks and treats to about 80 participants. The event served both adult clients and mental health patients, nearly doubling last year’s attendance. Afterward, guests enjoyed a luncheon in the gymnasium.