Hult Center for Healthy Living is Peoria’s premier nonprofit provider of comprehensive health education and wellness services for individuals and families across Central Illinois. Our mission is to “empower people to live healthier lives” through evidence-based education, prevention programming, and strong community partnerships.
As a trusted community resource, Hult Center delivers health education that supports broader public health efforts while serving schools, community agencies, youth organizations, and social service partners. Our programs are designed to align with classroom objectives and evidence-based best practices, ensuring they meet educational standards while addressing real-world health needs.
We focus on some of today’s most pressing public health priorities, including obesity, chronic disease prevention (such as diabetes and cardiovascular health), sexual and reproductive health, mental health, substance use prevention, and overall wellness. As community needs evolve, Hult Center continues to adapt and expand programming to provide relevant, impactful services.
Each year, tens of thousands of individuals participate in our youth- and community-focused programs. We offer engaging, age-appropriate education for pre-kindergarten through adults on a wide range of health topics, including nutrition, reproductive and sexual health, mental health, substance use prevention, dental health, and general wellness. Through these programs, participants gain practical knowledge and skills related to healthy decision-making, physical activity, emotional well-being, and disease prevention.
A cornerstone of our on-site programming is our four interactive teaching theaters, which provide immersive, hands-on learning experiences in:
- General Health (featuring TAM, the Transparent Anatomical Mannikin)
- Nutrition
- Reproductive Health
- Substance Use Prevention
To increase accessibility, many of our programs can be delivered “on the road” through outreach in schools and community settings throughout Central Illinois. Virtual education options are also available, allowing us to extend our reach beyond the region. Programs can be customized to meet the unique needs of schools, organizations, and all populations.
A key component of our work is the WELL (Wellness Education Lifestyle Learning) Program, which provides personalized health coaching and structured education for youth at risk of developing chronic conditions. Participants engage in goal setting, behavior change strategies, and hands-on learning experiences that support sustainable, long-term healthy lifestyles.
In addition to youth programming, Hult Center offers community-based education that promotes mental health awareness, reduces stigma, and connects individuals and families to supportive resources. Our approach emphasizes prevention, early intervention, and building resilience through inclusive and culturally responsive education.
Our services are delivered by a team of dedicated professionals with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in public health, mental health, and related fields. Many of our educators are Certified Health Education Specialists (CHES) through the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, ensuring high-quality, evidence-based instruction.
Hult Center also supports the next generation of public health professionals through a robust internship program in partnership with local institutions, including Bradley University, Illinois State University, Western University, and the University of Illinois College of Medicine. These opportunities allow students and medical residents to engage in grassroots public health initiatives while contributing fresh perspectives to our programs and services.
Each year, Hult Center serves tens of thousands of individuals across Central Illinois. As we continue to grow and innovate, we remain committed to advancing health equity and improving the well-being of the communities we serve.
To learn more about our programs and services, please explore this website. For questions or additional information, contact Hult Center for Healthy Living at 309-692-6650 or email hultoffice@carle.com.
