IMPACT Ulysses Talks About Recent Activity

IMPACT Ulysses was originally created by Grant County Community Foundation in 2020.

The main focuses of the coalition are health, prevention, and active living. The Ulysses News spoke with IMPACT Executive Director Margaret Obholz and member Ludivina Gonzales to obtain the mission and recent movements of the coalition.

“Part of what we do, as a coalition, is advocate for all populations," Obholz explained. "Hearing from unique voices, who are the roots of the community that you don’t typically hear from, are able to engage in the community. We want to serve those individuals by conveying their needs to people in leadership.”

“IMPACT is here to help our population and community progress and thrive,” added Ludivina Gonzales.

Sacrifice is key.

“It takes sacrifice from every part of the community to create the necessary shift for positive change,” said Obholz.

IMPACT has been a staple in many movements towards health, including but not limited to: Marketplace Health Insurance enrollment assistance, creating tobacco and vape-free public spaces, and developing surveys to meet the health needs of the community.

Most recently, IMPACT met with Ulysses City Councilmen to discuss the probability and layout of new amenities at Barb Dye Park (also known as Peach Tree Park). A community garden was established by IMPACT and city councilmen at the same location in June.

Although the decision to establish a dog park is undecided at this time, Obholz remains optimistic for change.

"Collaboration is what we need for our community," said Obholz. "For every person in our community to feel thought of by every sector–the county, city, school district, media, and organizations–gives the opportunity for each sector to contribute."

IMPACT's vision is "innovating to inspire, impart and invest in healthy minds and healthy lives to build healthy communities for tomorrow" with a mission to "promote healthy lifestyles and reduce risky behaviors for youth, their families and our diverse community".

For more information on IMPACT Ulysses, please contact Margaret Obholz at 620-937-0263 or visit impactulys-ses.org.