“The most memorable success story comes from the 5th Community Wellness Day and the release of thousands of ladybugs. Randall shared how these tiny creatures crawled on his arm as everyone around him watched intently, noticing their patterns, movements, and the sensations of the sun, soil, and plants. It was a grounding, shared experience of co-regulation and mindfulness in community. Moments like these—standing in a garden, connecting across generations, and being present—highlight the power of relationships, space, and place in fostering long-term well-being and mental health.”
Betsy Dobbins, Executive Director, Center for Children’s Rights
Between March and October 2024, the three EAL teams engaged 854 unduplicated people in various health improvement activities, such as wellness days, support groups, community dinners, cultural competency training, and a postpartum program. Some of these 854 participants joined more than one EAL activity. The Center focused on centering the lived experiences of those participating in activities related to the EAL projects.
Copyright © 2025 Center for Thriving Communities. All Rights Reserved.
Terms of Use. Privacy Policy.
How might we foster collaboration and co-design between community residents and community-based institutions to achieve a community health improvement goal? We will share tools for community engagement and insights from projects that center community co-design and ownership.
How might we engage leaders from different sectors to partner on a holistic vision of health? We will share tools and approaches to frame the Vital Conditions for Health and Well-Being and approaches for community-driven coalitions.
How might we measure success of community well-being initiatives through a community lens? We will share tools for community-led data and measurement to support local health initiatives describe their impacts.
How might we resource and sustain the impacts of local well-being initiatives. We will share approaches to engage community and organizational leaders to invest in locally developed solutions.
This final workshop of the Center’s four-part learning journey series is designed to provide organizations with insights and tips when applying for funding and other resources to support community initiatives. You’ll learn how to construct a grant, including standard grant components, write a compelling program description, learn about evaluation frameworks, and essential considerations for crafting a budget and budget narrative.
