Active Living is a way of life that integrates physical activity into daily routines, through activities such as biking, walking and/or taking transit.
Why is Active Living important
- Improves physical and mental health
- Decreases risk of chronic disease
- Reduces medical costs associated with chronic disease
- Reduces transportation costs
- Reduces pollution and improves air quality
- Builds safer, stronger communities
- Increases quality of life
About our work
Active Living Hennepin Communities, or ALHC, is a partnership of cities, businesses, state and local agencies, and the county. We work together to increase opportunities for active living in our communities through policy change, infrastructure planning, marketing and communications, mentoring new and potential organizations, and hosting workshop events.
During 2006 and 2007, we conducted an assessment of the opportunities and barriers to active living. The assessment led to the development of our vision, mission and guiding principles, and helps guide our work.
We have been funded by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota since 2006, and, as of July 2009, are also funded through the Minnesota Department of Health's Statewide Health Improvement Program, or SHIP. A vision, mission and guiding principles are at the core of all that we do.
Active Living partners
Resolutions and policies
The Hennepin County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the county's first active living resolution in October 2007. This resolution formally adopted our active living vision, mission and guiding principles, and laid the foundation for the development and implementation of related policies. Our Active Living Policies and Complete Streets Policy, were adopted in June and July of 2009 and are being implemented in Hennepin County during 2010.
Targeted workshops
We have hosted four targeted workshops for our partners and other interested organizations:
