The intersect between Governor's Council initiatives and the activities of MAP is clear:  both are dedicated to creating an environment that fosters healthy, sustainable communities. And so a natural partnership was forged, and MAP served as the resident planning expert on the Planning Active Communities (PAC) steering committee. In 2007 the PAC assessment tool, an online process to ascertain whether a community is planning for healthy, walkable environments was updated creating an even more viable measurement of a communities' strengths and weaknesses as they strive to improve the health of their community through better designed built and natural environments.  MAP also was a key member of the PAC's policy committee, and together we promoted these concepts to the Department of Education and to legislators.

Active communities are vibrant communities. You can help turn your community into a more active, livable, economically viable community by participating in the Promoting Active Communities (PAC) program. Increased opportunities for physical activity can provide improved air quality, higher real estate values and better public health. This program consists of a free online assessment tool designed to help communities evaluate local policies, programs, and environments and identify ways to promote and support physical activity.  The PAC also consists of an awards system that recognizes communities for using innovative strategies to design active living environments.  You can learn more and become an active living advocate in your hometown by visiting the PAC Web site at: www.mihealthtools.org/communities.