Model Communities

Mass in Motion: Success Stories

Here's an overview of Mass In Motion (PDF)  , a multi-faceted initiative to help Massachusetts residents eat better and move more.

One aspect of Mass in Motion has been the implementation of Body Mass Index (BMI) screening in our schools. Here's an account of Implementing BMI Screening in Public Schools Across the Commonwealth  .

Another component of Mass In Motion are new requirements that ensure healthier menu and snack options in all state agencies and facilities. Learn more (PDF)  .

Learn more about Mass Children at Play (PDF)  , an innovative program that helps kids eat better and move more in childcare settings.

Here's an account (PDF)  of how policy makers, residents and local youth in Fitchburg are working together to bring real change to their community.

Community leaders in Fitchburg have also been working hard to improve the safety and overall conditions of the city's parks. Learn more here (PDF)  .

Recognizing the importance of locally grown fresh produce in a healthy diet, town leaders in Franklin built a community garden (PDF)  .

In Gloucester, city leaders are working to improve pedestrian access (PDF)  between the downtown and harborfront areas, as well as improving sidewalks (PDF)  -- making the city more walkable for everyone. City officials have also developed the city's first Open Space and Recreation Plan (PDF)  in the past twelve years.

City leaders in New Bedford developed Healthy Eating New Bedford (PDF)  , an innovative partnership with local restaurants to give diners healthier options when dining out.

In Springfield, city leaders are working to promote school gyms (PDF)  as safe places for kids and adults to be physically active.

At the state level, the Massachusetts Department of Corrections offers an innovative Worksite Wellness program (PDF)  for their employees.

The Massachusetts Hospital Association is also making big changes (PDF)  to help employees reduce stress and make healthier choices.

Staff members at the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission are also taking advantage of that agency's Worksite Wellness program (PDF)  , which is committed to improving employee health.

Here are details (PDF)  on how one Fall River non-profit agency is helping their employees to eat better and move more on the job.

Healthy City Fall River - Fall River and New Bedford residents are combining efforts to create a    safe, regional bikeway  . Learn what else Fall River is doing to improve the health and quality of life of its residents. In addition to their website and resources, Fall River posts regular updates.

Healthy Mission Hill (PDF) 
Find out about activities designed to improve the overall health of Mission Hill through education, increasing access to food , advocacy, and increasing awareness of physical activities in the area.

Holyoke - See how Nuestras Raíces is promoting economic, human and community development through projects relating to food, agriculture and the environment.

Shape Up Somerville - Learn how Somerville became a national model of healthy living.

• Visit the City's website
• Read the Boston Globe article