Cambridge, Massachusetts is known for its beautiful harbors, its rich history and Harvard University. It’s also known to be home to some of the healthiest people in the nation.
One group contributing to a healthy lifestyle is The November Project, which was created in 2011 as a free, fun way to keep people accountable for their health.
"Every Wednesday morning is stairs, we always run Harvard Stadium,” says Chris Capozzi, one of the group’s organizers.
Capozzi says rain or shine, the group workouts go on.
“If there's 8 feet of snow, we're going to be here no matter what.” D
He says since their start seven years ago, their mission has grown globally.
"It just started spreading worldwide, and now we're in 40 cities across the planet,” Capozzi says.
The roots to this movement began in Cambridge, and it’s no surprise to anyone in the city.
“Cambridge is already a fit city,” says Capozzi. “I mean people are biking everywhere people are running.”
So, what are government leaders doing to keep the city healthy?
“You have a group of people who for almost 100 years now have come together to sort of advance topics in health and wellness,” explains David Martin with the Massachusetts Health Council.
Martin says having a network of people focused on health policy is the key.
“Working to increase taxes on cigarettes and then things like the workplace smoking ban,” Martin says.
He says Cambridge is also leading the charge in keeping youth on track.
“Get into the classroom,” Martin says. “Have people that can come in and talk about it.”
Bike shares in Cambridge are sponsored by health care companies. Additionally, top law makers are on the health care front lines.
But in order to make community health a priority, Martin says it all boils down to income.
“Living conditions are what make a big difference in people's ability to lead a healthy life,” Martin explains.
Cappozzi agrees, saying getting The November Project into lower income cities is part of their plan.