Community Stories

Health improvement efforts from around the country

United Way-Led Initiative in Chittenden County, Vermont Strengthens Local Workforce

June 15, 2015

The County Health Rankings shows us that there are a web of factors that influence health including education, housing, the environment, and the availability...

Where everyone chips in to improve health: How United Way of Greater Lafayette helps channel community assets

February 17, 2015

Fundraising can certainly be a challenge for community health improvement efforts, but in Tippecanoe County, IN, an interconnection of resources has proven to be...

In Utah, United Way Makes Strong Link Between Education and Health

February 10, 2015

Education is a key component to health – we know that better educated individuals live longer, healthier lives than those with less education, and...

Changing the Trajectory of High-needs Families: United Way of Central Ohio

February 5, 2015

The County Health Rankings are based on a model of population health that emphasizes the many factors that, if improved, can help make communities...

St. Louis Area Business Health Coalition Connects Residents with Healthy Options

August 1, 2014

After a community needs assessment revealed that St. Louis should be focused on reducing obesity, weight management, physical activity, access to health food, and...

A Farmers Market on the Move in North Carolina

November 26, 2013

Many people in Rowan County, N.C., don’t have access to healthy foods – so Jon Barber, a local food advocate and farmers market owner...

Making Changes by Focusing on What Works

November 26, 2013

For county health officers, sometimes raising awareness isn’t enough. To make lasting change, focusing on programs and initiatives that are proven to be successful...

Mason County, WA: Building a Roadmap to Better Health by Investing in Education

March 17, 2013

In Mason County, WA—which ranked 35 out of 39 counties in the state in the 2012 County Health Rankings—a diverse group of partners has...

PART II: Holmes County, Mississippi’s Ambassadors for Health

March 11, 2013

As Margaret Mead famously said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only...

Maec Waewaenon: Giving Thanks and Improving Health in Menominee County, Wisconsin

December 6, 2012

Proud of their Menominee tribal culture and history, residents and leaders in Menominee County responded to being ranked 72nd of 72 counties by redoubling...