McIntosh County Family Connection, in partnership with the Georgia Coastal Health District and McIntosh County Health Department, hosted the Spring Into Wellness event at the McIntosh County Recreation Department Gym. The event welcomed 169 participants and provided a full day of family-centered health and wellness activities.

“In McIntosh County, relationships are everything—and this is the most supportive community I’ve ever been part of,” said McIntosh County Family Connection coordinator Tracy Sanford. “Systems change doesn’t happen overnight. But when you stay consistent and focus on the why—children and families—you start to see real shifts in culture.”

Outdoor activities included water slides and a bike safety course led by Bike Walk Golden Isles, where all participating children received helmets. A fire truck visit provided an engaging, hands-on experience for children and families. Food and refreshments, including cotton candy and popcorn, were available throughout the event.

Inside, families connected with a wide range of community partners and service providers. The event featured a vendor passport system, encouraging engagement at each table while providing educational resources and access to local services. McIntosh County Family Connection staff distributed books, family resources, and promotional materials while connecting directly with families.

In McIntosh County, the latest Georgia KIDS COUNT data shows that the rate of low birthweight babies is 13.5%, compared to the Georgia rate of 10.3%, highlighting the need for targeted solutions. A key outcome of the event was the enrollment of 41 women into the GoMo maternal health program, expanding access to support for healthy pregnancies and early childhood outcomes.

Families also received essential items, including diapers, hygiene products, first aid kits, and educational materials. Additional incentives included entry into prize drawings for items such as grocery gift cards, child care equipment, and swimming lessons.

The event was supported through a CareSource grant and received strong promotion through local media outlets, including television, print, and community communication channels. Overall, the event strengthened community engagement and increased awareness of available health and family resources.

“What motivates me most are the families who just need one connection—one resource, one conversation—to change their trajectory,” said Sanford. “The plan is simple: stay rooted in community, stay guided by the data, and never lose sight of the person behind the number. Every person deserves a community that shows up for them.”

McIntosh County Family Connection is a member of the Georgia Family Connection statewide network, working alongside children, families, and communities across the state to craft local solutions that maximize resources and make systems more effective and efficient.

“Being part of the statewide Family Connection network means we’re never working alone—and I love that,” said Sanford. “It gives structure, accountability, and connection. We learn from other counties, share data, and bring home what’s working instead of reinventing the wheel. For a small county like McIntosh County, access to big ideas and shared learning allows us to respond thoughtfully and strategically, not just reactively.”

To learn more about McIntosh County Family Connection’s efforts, visit mcintosh.gafcp.org or contact Tracy Sanford at 912-289-1083 or McIntoshFamilyConnection@gmail.com.