Jon Mooney is keeping a pulse on the health of the Springfield-area population. Nearly three years into his role leading a young division within the health department after eight years with Jordan Valley Community Health Center, Mooney believes effectively collaborating with other community leaders and organizations is the key to address health issues before they arise. Mooney leads the city’s employee wellness program, inBalance, and he’s a founding member of the Healthy Living Alliance and longtime chairman of the Childhood Obesity Action Group.
What was your first job? Mowing lawns. My parents were quick to instill in my brothers and I a strong work ethic.
Besides your family, what’s your most treasured possession? My running shoes. They give me the freedom to instantly get away from everything, do something I love and to decompress.
What do you miss most about the 1990s? Clunky cordless phones, carefree summers and Kelly Kapowski.
What about your job would shock clients? For a profession that is focused on encouraging healthy behaviors, I spend a lot of time in front of a computer.
What did you learn the hard way? Community collaboration. Projects typically move at a slower pace and everyone has to balance their organizational perspective and the community perspective. Patience, open communication and persistence are necessities. Learning to work more effectively in these settings is a never-ending process.
