The Florida Department of Health in Sarasota was recognized by The National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) as a Large Local Health Department of the Year for 2019. Applications for the award were judged based on the size of the health department, and were scored on their innovation and creativity, implementation, impact in the community and public health, and engagement of community and diverse partners. The theme for the 2019 LHD of the Year Award was, "Improving Public and Private Partnerships." Sarasota County Health and Human Services (SCHHS) is itself a collaboration between the Florida Department of Health in Sarasota and Sarasota County Government. 

"Whether leading, facilitating, guiding, or supporting, Sarasota County Health and Human Services remains deeply committed to our shared community goals. We are privileged to serve a community that works hard to build strong alliances to improve the health outcomes of all residents and visitors," says DOH-Sarasota Administrator and Director for Sarasota County Health and Human Services Chuck Henry. "By working together and aligning intentions and goals, the community has succeeded in coordinating action to maximize positive outcomes."

NACCHO highlighted three thriving examples of positive community collaborations during the award presentation: The Behavioral Health Stakeholders Consortium, Age-Friendly Sarasota, and First 1,000 Days Sarasota County.

Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County