ASTHO Challenge

Public health is moving toward high impact, place-based approaches focused on building healthier, more resilient communities so that everyone—in every community—has the opportunity to be as healthy as possible.

Governmental public health agencies are leading this charge to transform systems and policies in ways that empower local communities. Join ASTHO, NACCHO, the Office of the U.S. Surgeon General, and other partners in building healthy and resilient communities by investing in community-led, place-based, cross-sector approaches.

Getting Started: Tips for States

About

The ASTHO Challenge is to build healthy and resilient communities by investing in community-driven, place-based, cross-sector approaches. We will accomplish the challenge using four key strategies:

  • Equip public health officials to mobilize community-driven, place-based, cross-sector initiatives that have demonstrated readiness for investment and an ability to measure outcomes.
  • Connect public health officials to business leaders and policymakers inclined to invest in these initiatives.
  • Promote positive social connections as a public health strategy for combating issues like addiction, emotional suffering, and social isolation.
  • Reframe resilience as advancing forward, not just bouncing back.

A Message From Nicole Alexander-Scott

Watch as Nicole Alexander-Scott, MD, MPH (alumni-RI) explains the ASTHO Challenge and why it’s important to create healthy places for people to live, learn, work, and play.

Click the dropdown menu to view more videos related to the ASTHO Challenge.

Tools and Resources Database

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This database contains reports, case studies, and other resources to inspire health agency leaders to collaborate with community members and partners to build healthier, more resilient communities.

Search the database

ASTHO's Place-Based ECHO

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ASTHO formed a Place-Based ECHO to uncover what makes place-based interventions so effective.

Learn about Project ECHO

Join Us

Become a partner in this challenge and join us in a multiyear, national effort to promote community-led, place-based, cross-sector approaches to achieve better health.

Join the Challenge

Share Your Story

How are you making your community healthier? Tell us about your work to engage local communities, business leaders, and nontraditional partners from diverse sectors in advancing health equity.

Submit your story