Building a Heart-Healthy Alabama
About Us
ANNO (Alabama Not Number One), was founded by a team of physicians, clergy, nursing professionals, and corporate leaders who combined decades of medical experience. After observing the high prevalence of heart-related illnesses, particularly in Alabama's Black Belt, they recognized the crucial role that faith-based organizations play in supporting community health.
ANNO partners with houses of worship across Alabama to transform community health from the inside out. Through our collaboration with HEAL, we train congregation ambassadors to become health educators within their own faith communities. These trained leaders host comprehensive health and wellness events featuring fitness demonstrations, culinary education, master gardening expertise, and physician-led keynotes—all designed to combat Alabama's devastating cardiovascular disease rates. By meeting people where they already gather, pray, and trust, we're building a grassroots movement to help Alabamians lead longer, healthier lives. Because when faith communities embrace wellness, entire neighborhoods transform.
“Our core values are based in the most important function of the heart - Love. To co-create a loving home and temple, for God and for our fellow man”.
-ANNO Founder
Mission: To provide actionable education to empower our participants to lead longer, healthier lives.
Our Community Partners
Our ANNO + HEAL Events
Programs + Education
Each program is elevated by distinguished healthcare professionals who bring specialized expertise to our community. Our roster of speakers includes board-certified cardiologists, internal medicine physicians, registered nurses, mental health counselors, and other medical experts. Together the group provides evidence-based insights tailored to support your wellbeing journey.
Fitness + Dance
ANNO offers hands-on demonstrations throughout the year in a health fair format. A comprehensive wellness experience that seamlessly integrates health education with practical lifestyle enrichment. Our dynamic programming features engaging fitness and dance demonstrations that inspire movement. Also offered are interactive culinary demonstrations that promote nutritious living, and expert guidance from gardening specialists. Each expert gives insight to their area of speciality for encouragement and education to participants.
Culinary + Gardening
Our gardening experts provide hands-on instruction in cultivating fresh, nutritious produce. Teaching participants sustainable growing techniques and empowering them to raise the very foods that support optimal health. These lessons extend seamlessly into our culinary demonstrations, where skilled chefs and nutrition specialists transform garden-fresh ingredients into delicious, health-conscious meals.
FAQs
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Each quarter, one or more of our host partners has a program at their house of worship. Contact our executive director or look for updates on our website.
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Not at all! While faith-based organizations are important partners, we welcome any organization whose values align with our mission. If you're interested in hosting and meet our criteria, please reach out—we'd be happy to review your request.
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There is no standard hosting fee for ANNO/HEAL events. Costs are determined by the specific resources required, which may include guest speakers, gardening experts, fitness instructors, and culinary demonstrators. As a nonprofit organization, ANNO coordinates all event planning and actively seeks volunteers and professionals who are willing to donate their time or provide services at reduced costs.
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Check back here for upcoming dates for ANNO/HEAL events near you.
Interested in Having an ANNO HEAL Event?
Ready to invest in a healthier future? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover how our customized solutions can help you reach your wellness goals.
