Growing Healthy Communities
Community is an essential part of a healthy and whole self. It’s what makes us feel connected to others and an integral part of the lifestyle medicine focus. And at its core, it allows us to share and learn from each other. Two of our partner organizations remind us of this every day in the work that they do.
The Lifestyle Building
The Lifestyle Building is an amazing place in the Queens borough of New York City. The dream of founder Enrica Sacca, it brings people together to learn about the power of healthy choices. Visitors can attend a film screening, boost their kitchen skills with a cooking demonstration or gain powerful knowledge from a medical professional. The space hosts local, plant-based potlucks and there’s even an urban garden that allows individuals to see, smell and taste fresh produce. Community members can discover upcoming events and local partners to support them in making healthy choices for lasting health on the website as well.
Plant Powered Metro New York (PPMNY)
Enrica is also one of the founding members of Plant Powered Metro New York, an organization that empowers people to discover better health through whole food, plant-based nutrition. Along with Network Director Lianna Levine Reisner and a host of other volunteer leaders, this enigmatic group offers educational opportunities with some of the foremost experts in whole food, plant-based nutrition. Patrons also enjoy community-building through cooking demonstrations, webinars, potluck meals, and spirited, supportive discussions about books, films, and the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle.
Photo Credit: Plant Powered Metro New York, Instagram
Photo Credit: Plant Powered Metro New York, Instagram
Photo Credit: Plant Powered Metro New York, Instagram
Not only is this nonprofit opening people’s eyes, it’s also playing a key role in the transformation of the New York City healthcare system. In a recently announced partnership, PPMNY will offer Plant-Powered Jumpstarts to clinicians within the NYC Health + Hospitals system. These 21-day guided programs allow practitioners to experience a plant-based lifestyle for themselves, so that they can feel confident in recommending it to their patients. With educational sessions, cooking demos and farmers market experiences being made readily available to hospital staff, this will have a transformative effect – and serve as a catalyst for large-scale change.
These two groups are not alone in creating community in their area. There are thousands of others doing the same thing all around the globe and we’re proud to support them in their unique and important missions.
