Got Nature? Blog

Quality of life encompasses individuals’ overall well-being, goals, expectations, standards, and concerns. Various factors shape a person’s perception of quality of life, such as physical and mental health, economic stability, social connections, education, and the environment. Access to healthcare, education, employment opportunities, and recreational facilities significantly influences a person’s ability to meet their needs and achieve their goals (World Health Organization, 2012).

Discover the power of quality of place and placemaking through this new publication by Kara Salazar, who is the Assistant Program Leader for Community Development for Purdue Extension along with being the Sustainable Communities Extension Specialist for Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant. Placemaking is the process of planning, designing, and managing public spaces to enhance quality of life and foster community.  Effective placemaking, whether through tactical interventions like pop-up parks or strategic projects that reshape entire neighborhoods, revitalizes communities. By involving residents in the process, we create vibrant spaces that reflect local culture and values. These efforts not only improve quality of life but also attract investment, support local businesses, and promote sustainability.

To receive the free download, visit the Purdue Extension’s resource center: The Education Store – Quality of Place and Community Development.

Resources:
Implementation Examples of Smart Growth Strategies in Indiana, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Community Development, Purdue Extension
Enhancing the Value of Public Spaces Program Video, Purdue Extension
Enhancing the Value of Public Spaces: Creating Healthy Communities, The Education Store – Purdue Extension’s resource center
Enhancing the Value of Public Spaces Curriculum, The Education Store
Sustainable Communities Extension Program Website, Purdue Extension
Conservation Through Community Leadership, The Education Store
One Water Approach to Water Resources Management, The Education Store
Rainscaping Education Program, Purdue Extension
Indiana Creek Watershed Project – Keys to Success, Partnerships and People, Video, Purdue Extension You Tube Channel
Subscribe to Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel

Kara Salazar, Sustainable Communities Extension Specialist
Purdue University Department of Forestry and Natural Resources