April 25, 2023 3:40 a.m.

Thrive Umpqua is bringing partners together for the first-annual Community Well Being Challenge.

Executive Director Jessica Hand said the challenge will explore the many accessible resources, events and activities that lead to greater longevity. Hand said the challenge began April 3rd and runs through the end of the year.

A release said Thrive Umpqua and dozens of community partners are offering free classes, hosting free events, offering unique exploration opportunities and much more. Participants are invited to take part in at least six well-being activities throughout the year that correspond to the organization’s six Longevity Principles: Move More, Connect, Live on Purpose, Plant Slant, Unwind and Positive Outlook.

Hand said there is no manual tracking or logging of activities required. Thrive Umpqua will track attendance at the events and activities and those that are signed up will be entered to win prizes each month as well as the final grand prizes at the end of the challenge. Eligible activities will be communicated through monthly emails, periodic text messages and on www.thriveumpqua.com.

Upcoming Well-Being Challenge activities include opportunities to plant slant, and connect at an upcoming shopping tour on Friday, Celebrate Children’s Day on Saturday, and a gardening workshop and a cooking class – both coming in May. Some participants will share their purpose through community volunteerism at a street beautification project on Southeast Stephens Street on Thursday. May will bring more opportunities to move as it is Bike Month.

Hand said everyone who registers will receive a free Thrive Umpqua t-shirt. Learn more at www.thriveumpqua.com. Register for the Community Well Being Challenge at https://thriveumpqua.com/wellbeingchallenge/

Thrive Umpqua Community Engagement Director Juliete Palenshus will talk more about the challenge on the Morning Conversation Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. on News Radio  93-9 FM and 1240 KQEN.