Neighborhood & Built Environment
The places where we live, work, and play shape our well-being. Learn how neighborhood and built environment factors—like safe housing, clean air, and green spaces, impact our health.
Built Environment
The built environment consists of the human-made structures or surroundings where people live and work. Its design affects safety, healthy living, and access to amenities like grocery stores and internet infrastructure.
Neighborhood
Neighborhoods are where people live and connect. They impact quality of life, including health, education, employment, and overall well-being.
How Neighborhood and Built Environment Impacts Olivia
Meet Olivia—grateful to have a home with her aunt after experiencing homelessness, but dreaming of a place with more nearby amenities. Her old car could break down at any moment, so Olivia hopes to find affordable housing with walkable shops and public transport.
Get to Know OliviaHow Neighborhood and Built Environment Impacts The Jackson Family
Meet the Jacksons—living in a safe, diverse neighborhood where they enjoy parks, community centers, and time together. Nichelle loves the nearby resources for her kids, Marcus is a foodie who appreciates easy access to the grocery, and Jayden enjoys walking with his grandma Evelyn through the neighborhood. Yet, they remain mindful of their surroundings.
Get to Know The Jackson FamilyHow Neighborhood and Built Environment Impacts The Garcia Family
Meet Elena—a widowed mom living in rural Indiana who faces long commutes, limited internet access, and rising fuel costs. Without nearby resources or safe places to walk, she struggles to balance work, errands, and family time. She dreams of a fresh start in a neighborhood with better access to child care, internet, and other amenities.
Get to Know The Garcia FamilyHow Neighborhood and Built Environment Impacts Chris
Meet Chris—a substitute teacher who relies on housing vouchers, rideshares, and public transit. Accessibility issues in his apartment and the lack of safe, walkable spaces nearby make daily life challenging. Despite using public transit and paratransit, Chris hopes for a future where transportation is less of a daily struggle.
Get to Know Chris
