Food as Medicine
Nourishing Minds and Bodies.
Join us in making a difference. Every penny counts.
Holistic Health
You are what you eat
The importance of nutrition in mental health cannot be underestimated. Recent research indicates that individuals with a balanced diet are 30% less likely to experience symptoms of depression. In Hawai‘i, where access to nutritious food can be a challenge, the need for nutritional education is critical. Amidst the backdrop of high rates of obesity in the United States, where approximately 42.4% of adults were considered obese as of the latest data from the CDC (2020), regular exercise’s role in mood improvement becomes even more critical. Engaging in physical activity not only positively affects neurotransmitters but also plays a pivotal role in combating the obesity epidemic, reducing the risk of related health conditions, and improving overall mental and physical well-being.
What’s Needed
Knowledge and accountability
Funds raised will enable us to provide nutritional education and consultation services, ensuring that everyone has access to the knowledge and support they need to make healthier choices.
Impact
Every penny will help.
By supporting this initiative, you’ll help individuals in our community make informed dietary decisions, enhancing their mental and physical well-being for years to come.
Program Includes
Nutrition Education
We provide valuable knowledge about making healthier food choices. You’ll learn about the foods that can positively impact your mental and physical health.
Coaching
You’ll have a nutrition coach by your side, guiding you through your unique journey. They’ll help you set achievable goals and create a nutrition plan that suits your lifestyle and preferences.
Accountability
We know that making changes can be challenging. That’s why our nutrition coach will help you stay on track, providing support and motivation every step of the way. They’ll celebrate your successes and help you overcome any obstacles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Year of Heart?
“2024 is the The Year of Heart” is IMUA’s fundraising drive! Our mission is to gather the necessary funds to kickstart the IMUA Heart initiatives, which will allow us to provide even better support to our beloved communities in Hawaii.
What is this initiative?
Food as Medicine is all about recognizing the important link between what we eat and our mental health, especially in beautiful Hawai‘i where getting nutritious food can sometimes be a bit tricky. But we’re not just talking about eating better; we’re talking about a holistic approach to well-being.
To make a real difference, we’ve designed a comprehensive program that covers nutrition education, personalized coaching, and accountability through a dedicated nutrition coach.
Who are these services for?
Anyone living in the state of Hawaii. Currently, IMUA Health Group provides mental health services and accepts most major insurances. IMUA Heart will do the same.
For the Initiatives of the Heart, we are designing a comprehensive program to help the teens of Hawaii with IMUA Village, while the other initiatives are designed for anyone looking to get healthier.
Who is providing these services?
Check out Team IMUA.
Why are these services important to our community?
Read about IMUA Heart’s cause.
When are these services happening?
Therapy services and post graduate training has been happening since 2020 through IMUA Health Group.
2024 is the Year of Heart. We hope to launch these initiatives during that year.
How much do services cost?
For therapy, IMUA Health Group accepts most major insurances, Medicare, and Medicaid (Quest). IMUA Heart will do the same when credentialing is complete (estimated 2024).
The Initiatives of the Heart will have a sliding scale that goes all the way to free. More information to be released soon.
How can I help?
Every penny, every dollar, every person sharing IMUA Heart’s mission helps. Donate here. Contact us for more information on volunteering or career opportunities at IMUA.
Check out other initiatives!
Cultural Education & Services
Mental health studies how cultural ties reduce stress and boost well-being. In Hawai’i, cultural roots are fading. Your donation will allow us to expand cultural education and activities, providing a deeper connection to Hawaiian traditions and values. Help our community rediscover its roots, enhance mental health, and promote a sense of identity and pride.
IMUA Village - Youth Program
In the past decade, youth suicide rates in Hawai‘i have surged by 30%, emphasizing the urgent need for support systems for high school students. Your generous donations will fund dedicated staff for our IMUA Village initiative, creating a comprehensive program covering fitness, tutoring, and creative arts. Together, we’ll boost self-esteem, resilience, and connection, equipping them to grow and reach their full potential.
Health & Wellness Center
Physical and emotional health are closely linked, but access to well-being spaces in our community is limited. Regular exercise can reduce the risk of depression and anxiety by 25% through the release of mood-enhancing neurotransmitters. These chemicals not only improve immediate well-being but also yield long-term mental health benefits. We need $250,000 for renovations and equipment to make this dream real. Your donation will create a welcoming space to improve physical and emotional well-being and promote a healthier, balanced life.