Here at Clay County Public Health Center, we get to work with some pretty incredible moms. Whether they are members of our staff, clients, or community partners, every mom has a story for "why" they do what they do for their own children and the children of their community. Read stories from three local moms below.

This May, we want to wish every mother - including grandmothers, adoptive/foster moms, stepmoms, moms who have experienced loss, or anyone who has stepped up to play a maternal role in someone's life - a very happy Mother's Day. Thank you for everything you do to care for others. You are seen and appreciated!

Ensuring a Healthy Start

Guimelh, WIC mom of three

"As a mom, I want to give my children the best possible start in life—and that means making sure they’re eating well, staying active, and learning to take care of themselves. WIC has been an incredible support system for me. It helps provide healthy food for my family, which makes a big difference when budgeting for groceries.

Beyond that, WIC offers helpful nutrition education, support with breastfeeding, and even connects me with other resources when I need them. It feels like having a community that really understands and cares about my child’s well-being. Motherhood isn’t always easy, but programs like WIC remind me that I don’t have to do it alone."

Empowering Others

Corrie, Program Manager of Immunizations at Clay County Public Health Center

"As a mother and Clay County resident, I'm proud of the work we do at Clay County Public Health Center. Our efforts help protect the health of my family, every individual, and every family in our community and that motivation drives me in my work in public health."

Making a Difference

Julia, Program Director for Excelsior Springs SAFE, a Drug-Free Communities Coalition

"I think the work I do is important because when we empower community members and organizations to be a part of preventing youth substance use, we help kids live up to their potential. Many societal problems are rooted in substance use addiction, and research shows that preventing youth substance use helps prevent adult addiction. Prevention creates a more mentally and physically healthy future for our community."

Before summer 2025 begins, Clay County Public Health's environmental health team wants to recognize pool operators  that went above and beyond for safety last year!

For the year 2024, 26 facilities received a Pool Safety Excellence Award and 7 facilities reached "Gold Standard" status by achieving the award three or more years in a row. Award winners successfully followed the Clay County Rules and Regulations for Pools/Spas and achieved exceptional inspection results during the calendar year.

Last year, the Environmental Health section of Clay County Public Health Center conducted 474 recreational water inspections. This year’s award winners represent 22% of Clay County-regulated recreational water facilities.

Gold Standard winners:

A new statewide survey revealed that Missourians overwhelmingly trust and support their local public health agencies and they want to see them thrive. The Missouri Public Health Trust Poll, conducted in early 2025, highlights both the strengths and opportunities in public health outreach across the state. 

Key findings: nearly 60% of Missourians have used their local public health agency (LPHA), 71% of LPHA users trust their local health department, and 83% of Missourians support increased public health funding. However, 26% of Missourians are unaware of the services available through their local LPHA, highlighting an opportunity for increased outreach and education. 

“In a time where it can be confusing to know who to trust as a source of reliable information, it’s reassuring to see these results and know that people still largely trust their local health agencies,” said Darrell Meinke, Clay County’s director of public health. “I hope they can look at the members of our team and recognize neighbors who are working hard to make a positive impact on the health of their own community, to the best of their ability.”

Health center staff gathered for a group photo in recognition of National Public Health Week in April.

Clay County Public Health Center is now accepting applications for the following positions. Click here to learn more!

We also have the following volunteer opportunities available:

800 Haines Drive, Liberty, MO 64068

clayhealth.com | 816-595-4200

Through service, partnership, and leadership we deliver the essential public health services of prevention, promotion, and protection to improve the health and well-being of all communities in Clay County.

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