State Senator Steve Santarsiero and the Bucks County Health Improvement Partnership (BCHIP) launched Blue Zones Ignite Bucks Area, a transformative initiative aimed at improving the health and well-being of residents, writes Jeff Werner for the Patch.  

Funded by a state grant, this partnership with Blue Zones will conduct a comprehensive community assessment to recommend infrastructure, policy, and other improvements. The goal is to make the Bucks area a healthier and happier place to live, work, grow up, and grow old. 

Based on 25 years of research, the Blue Zones approach uses lessons of longevity and happiness from the world’s longest-living communities.  

The Ignite phase will involve engagement and education with local leaders and community members, leading to recommendations for a full-scale transformation. 

“We look forward to partnering with Bucks area leaders,” said Ben Leedle, CEO of Blue Zones. “Investing in community well-being brings exponential returns in health, productivity, and a stronger economy.” 

The initiative includes multiple townships and boroughs within the Bucks area. Immediately following the announcement, the Blue Zones Ignite Steering Committee, comprised of local healthcare, educational, business, and community leaders, convened for their first meeting. 

Read more about the Blue Chip Initiative in the Patch.  

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