The goal of Communities Putting Prevention to Work is to prevent or reduce the spread of obesity and related chronic diseases by increasing opportunities for improved nutrition and active living via policy, systems and environmental change. The intent is to implement sustainable change that fundamentally alters societal norms, making the healthy choice the easy choice for Pima County residents.

Individual choice is the bottom line when it comes to personal health behaviors like eating and exercising. Individuals make choices based on what is available to them, what they can afford, what they know about the choice they are making and what is safe and convenient. Many community policies have created systems and environments that favor unhealthy choices or present barriers to healthy eating and active living. It is up to the individual to decide what they will eat and how much exercise they will get, but by addressing barriers at the community level, Communities Putting Prevention to Work will provide opportunities and encouragement for Pima County residents to make healthy, easy choices.