For many counties throughout the United States, the public library system plays an important role in the community, serving as a center for social, cultural, and educational activity. These institutions have become especially important to the homeless and low-income families who may not be able to afford the amenities provided by the library. Pima County, Arizona’s public library system, however, began a program in 2010 that strives to serve another growing need that many communities throughout the country face – access to healthcare.
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For residents of Chicago’s northern suburbs, the Chicago Botanic Garden is much more than just a collection of colorful plants and flowers. Since it opened more than 40 years ago, the 385 acre grounds have served as an important center for community activity and education. The Garden is home to 26 separate gardens and four natural areas, as well as a conservation science education center and a library with one of the country’s largest collections of botanical books. The grounds are also host to numerous community events and educational courses throughout the year.
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Terms:Arts & Culture, Chicago, IL, Community Development, Creative Economy, Cultural Institutions, Design, Environment, IFC Best Practice, Institutions as Fulcrums of Change , Parks, Playgrounds & Gardens
The Habitot Children’s Museum first opened its doors in downtown Berkley in 1998, and the institution has served over 950,000 residents of underserved communities in the Bay Area since. The 7,000 sq. foot facility is home to exhibits that help teach kids about the value of physical activity, water preservation, and art and culture. The hands-on Museum encourages early childhood education and aims to help support a generation of curious and creative kids.
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Terms:Arts & Culture, Community Building, Creative Economy, Cultural Institutions, Downtown Development, Education, Families, IFC Best Practice, Institutions as Fulcrums of Change , Museums, Youth
The U.S. Armed Forces Retirement Home in Washington, D.C., commonly referred to as the ‘Soldiers’ Home,’ is one of the country’s oldest veterans’ retirement homes and certainly one of the most beautiful. Located on a 273-acre campus in Northwest D.C., the Home’s green pastures and tranquil lakes sit in stark contrast to the developed neighborhoods of the surrounding community. Since the home opened in 1851, the retirement community has been home to thousands of retired elderly and disabled veterans in the Washington area.
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When Dr. Gordon Streib, a sociology professor at the University of Florida, first pitched the idea of sponsoring a retirement community on the UF campus in 1997, it was understandably met with skepticism by the University leadership. It would seem difficult for the late-night lifestyles of college students and the generally more peaceful temperaments of senior citizens to coexist. Nearly 10 years after the retirement community opened its doors in 2004, however, the establishment of the Oak Hammock Retirement Home has proven to be such a resounding success that there is already a waiting list to get in.
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