Transformation of a rural community for active living.

The current economic recession is challenging all communities to protect and promote the health and well-being of children and families. Rural communities are often more vulnerable than their more urban counterparts because of limited resources and services. Successful models are needed in rural communities that demonstrate the benefits of linking programs, services, and policies that promote active living to improve population health. This article reports the lessons learned by the Martinsville-Henry County Coalition for Health and Wellness and Activate initiative as a rural model for active living and provides recommendations for other rural communities.