After nearly nine months of discussion and development, more than 60 partner organizations and Vitalyst Health Foundation have together developed a New Year’s resolution.

Ironically, it’s not a typical resolution about losing weight, getting more sleep, or eating better. It isn’t even a more expected one that focuses solely on improving our health care system. Because we recognize that the task of improving health goes far beyond the boundaries of health care and personal responsibility.

Instead, we resolve to celebrate the 2017 Year of Healthy Communities, dedicated to an expanded understanding of the factors that contribute to improving health everywhere we live, work, learn and play.

Throughout 2017, we’ll work together to identify, lift up and celebrate the great work taking place statewide. We will collectively focus on integrating the viewpoints, talents and work of diverse sectors in creating healthy, thriving spaces and places. We will explore how to be better together, all in the service of livability, sustainable growth, health equity and resiliency.

Expect to hear more from us soon, including a website launch, an upcoming webinar and a year-long slate of partner events to come. Once the party favors and champagne bottles are put away, the real fun will begin.