A powerful coalition of 20 well-respected arts, culture and academic institutions revitalizes a cultural district by improving walkability through major infrastructure projects in Boston, Massachusetts. Although focused in a commercial district, their efforts demonstrate innovative roles for large-scale institutions in improving the built environment. Their work is focused on attracting African American and Latino pedestrians from nearby schools and communities.

Utilizing a grassroots model, this effort engages community members, including ex-gang members, in the creation and painting of murals that improve aesthetics and transform neighborhoods in urban, economically disenfranchised communities throughout Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

A partnership between the Salinas Public Library and local school districts provided all students with library cards, free of charge and application-free. This simple, yet innovative, change in practice has resulted in more young people reading, engaging in meaningful opportunities, having a safe place to gather, and connecting with their community.

Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Federal funding gives states and localities a resource for programs that make walking and bicycling conditions safer, more accessible, and more convenient for children and their families.

The Boston Indicators Project, initiated in 1997 with its first formal report released in 2000, issues biennial indicator reports with measures of progress in sectors that are directly related to social determinants of health and conditions in Boston's communities that either promote or detract from the health of residents.

Working to reduce violence and crime in South Los Angeles, California, this community-driven, grassroots effort organizes community residents to close neighborhood liquor stores that negatively impact community health and safety.