Resources

This guide to what the authors call "asset-based community development," summarizes lessons learned by studying successful community-building initiatives in hundreds of neighborhoods across the United States. It outlines in simple, "neighborhood-friendly" terms what local communities can do to start their own journey down the path of asset-based development.

Prepared by Public Health Law and Policy, this publication contains information on land use and planning policies to support community and urban gardening from across the country. Topics covered include: general promotion of community gardens; specific promotion of community gardens; land acquisition; land tenure; management; quotas/location; and equitable access.

The Healthy Counties Database allows you to search for model policies, programs, and initiatives that counties nationwide have enacted to promote wellness and help prevent childhood obesity. No need to reinvent the wheel! Find out what your peers in local government have done to enable and encourage nutritious diets, physical activity, and healthy built and social environments.

In many communities, where safe places to play are few and far between, schools offer a variety of recreational facilities—from gymnasiums and running tracks to sports fields and playgrounds—to meet residents’ needs. But districts often close their property to the public after hours, concerned about security, maintenance, liability, and other costs.

This 140-page guide is designed to help coalitions working to build healthier communities, where people have access to healthy foods, and where being physically active can become a way of life for everyone. It is for coalition leaders and members who are new to this work, as well as those who are applying their experience to a new arena or are working with new partners.