District 20 Representative Peter Abbarno
By Peter Abbarno
For the C-C Chamber of Commerce
As we celebrate Men’s Health Month and Father’s Day this June, it is a good time to reflect on the important role health, family, and community play in building a strong local economy and a stronger future for Southwest Washington.
As a husband and father, small business owner, attorney, and state representative, I understand firsthand how easy it can be to put personal health on the back burner while balancing work, family responsibilities, and community involvement. Many fathers and business owners across Lewis County do the same thing every day.
Men’s Health Month serves as an important reminder that preventive care, mental health awareness, physical activity, and healthy lifestyles matter; not only for individuals, but for families, workplaces, and our broader community. Healthy employees are more productive. Healthy business owners are better able to grow their businesses and support their workers. Healthy parents and mentors are better able to invest time and energy into the next generation.
For many local businesses, especially small businesses, the health of the workforce directly impacts success. Whether it is construction, agriculture, healthcare, retail, or professional services, employers throughout our region understand the importance of reducing workplace injuries, encouraging wellness, and creating safe, healthy work environments. Businesses that invest in workplace safety and preventative healthcare often see improved morale, lower absenteeism, and stronger employee retention.
This conversation is especially important in rural communities like ours. Access to healthcare can sometimes be more limited in smaller towns and rural areas. That is why partnerships between healthcare providers, schools, employers, chambers of commerce, and community organizations are so valuable. When communities work together to promote healthy living, support mental health awareness, encourage outdoor recreation, and improve access to preventative care, everyone benefits.
I especially want to give a shout out to Julie Shaffley at Good Health Nutrition. Not only does her store have a wide variety of food and products to keep you healthy, but Julie never avoids me at Chamber events when I want to talk about a tincture or natural remedy. Visit her store on Harrison Ave. in Centralia or goodhealthnutrition.net.
Father’s Day also reminds us of the importance of mentorship and leadership. Fathers and father figures often teach lessons that extend far beyond the home: responsibility, accountability, work ethic, perseverance, and service to others. These values are also foundational to successful businesses and thriving communities.
Many of the business owners and community leaders who help make Lewis County special are also parents and grandparents. They coach little league teams, volunteer at community events, support local nonprofits, and mentor young professionals entering the workforce. Organizations like the Centralia-Chehalis Chamber of Commerce play a critical role in fostering those relationships and strengthening our sense of community.
Our chamber businesses do more than provide jobs and services. They sponsor youth athletics, support scholarships, donate to local causes, and invest in the quality of life that makes Southwest Washington such a wonderful place to raise a family. That community-minded spirit is one of the reasons our region continues to grow and succeed even during challenging economic times.
If you are interested in supporting youth soccer players in Centralia, Chehalis, and surrounding areas, consider supporting Twin City Union F.C. and visit twincityunion.sportngin.com.
June is also a great time to enjoy the many opportunities our region offers for healthy living and family activities. Southwest Washington provides incredible access to parks, trails, lakes, and outdoor recreation. Whether it is taking a walk along the Chehalis River, hiking local trails, fishing, biking, or simply spending time outdoors with family, these activities help improve both physical and mental health while strengthening family connections.
At the same time, we should continue encouraging conversations around mental health. Many men still hesitate to seek help for stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges. Breaking down those stigmas and encouraging open conversations can save lives and strengthen families. Employers, coworkers, friends, and family members all play an important role in supporting one another.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges or addiction, be sure to visit Cascade Community Healthcare at CascadeCommunityHealthcare.org.
As your state representative, I remain committed to supporting policies that strengthen families, improve access to healthcare, promote economic growth, and support our local businesses and workforce. Supporting healthy families and strong local businesses go hand in hand.
This June, as we celebrate fathers and recognize Men’s Health Month, I encourage everyone to take a little extra time to focus on health, family, and community. Schedule that annual check-up. Spend time with loved ones. Support local businesses. Get outdoors. Check in on friends and coworkers. Small steps can make a big difference.
The strength of Southwest Washington has always been its people; the hardworking men and women, parents, business owners, employees, and volunteers who care deeply about their communities and invest in the future. Together, we can continue building stronger families, stronger businesses, and a stronger Washington.
Rep. Peter Abbarno,
Peter Abbarno, Attorney and Partner at Althauser Rayan Abbarno, and State Representative in the 20th Legislative District.
