The Prevention Research Center (PRC) will celebrate the opening of an office in Ottumwa by hosting an open house on Monday, Oct. 20, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Edith Parker, director of the PRC, and Barbara Baquero, deputy directory, will discuss the project with those who attend. The office is located at 205 East Main Street in Ottumwa.

The center is partnering with the community of Ottumwa for a special community-based research project focused on physical activity. The center and its community partners conducted a survey in 2012-2013 to learn about the health needs and resources of Ottumwa. The survey asked questions about health, eating, physical activity, as well as views about the community, and interviewed over 1,000 people. The results are being used to evaluate health issues and develop projects to improve the health of the Ottumwa community.

Some of the center’s staff and community advisory board members recently took part in Ottumwa’s annual Oktoberfest Parade and met for a planning retreat.