The Health Council of West Central Florida (HCWCF) is one of eleven health councils established by the Florida Statute in 1983. It is a private non-profit agency governed by a Board of Directors appointed by County Commissioners to represent the concerns of health care consumers, providers, and purchasers at the local level. HCWCF serves residents in Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Manatee and Polk counties. The Health Council of West Central Florida is committed to assessing the health status and resources of area residents and assisting communities with solutions to meet emerging needs. To accomplish our mission we: Provide comprehensive assessment, planning and advisory services to meet the health related needs of the public, non-profit and governmental agencies; Provide education and public dialogue on health challenges facing our community; Enhance recognition by public, non-profit and government agencies of the Health Council of West Central Florida as the preferred non-profit health consultancy for technical guidance; and Diversify and enhance the Health Council of West Central Florida’s partnerships and funding.