Lifestyle Trends

Volunteering: Helping others could actually help you

The health benefits of volunteering are well documented and include reduced stress and risk of disease, an increased feeling of self worth and possibly even increased life expectancy. It is no wonder that for many people with chronic conditions, volunteering can even help maintain or improve one's physical health. Read More

What you need to know to prepare for natural disasters

Whether it's a wildfire, hurricane, tornado, flood or another natural disaster altogether, your family should know what to do when in danger. Read More

Drivers: 10 things you need to know about sharing the road with motorcycles

Anyone who rides a motorcycle knows it comes with risks. The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) estimates that 4,762 motorcyclists died in accidents in 2009. Now for the good news: It was the first time in 12 years that motorcycle fatalities decreased. Read More

New initiative seeks to help stem the HIV epidemic in the U.S. by improving access to care

For many, discussion of the HIV epidemic in this day and age conjures up images of the developing world, where even the most basic amenities can be scarce. Although HIV in developing countries is a serious issue deserving global attention and significant resources, what is less recognized is that the epidemic continues to grow here in the United States. Today, there are an estimated 640,000 people in the United States with HIV who are either undiagnosed, not in medical care or not receiving HIV treatment. Specific populations such as African Americans and women are still hit hard by the HIV/AIDS epidemic and face various barriers that prevent them from seeking or receiving the care they need. Read More

Nonprofits leaning on individuals and corporations in tough times

A new study released by the Corporation for National and Community Services reported that the number of volunteers in America rose 1.6 million in the past year. The dramatic increase ultimately demonstrates that people are contributing to their communities at an increasing rate, even during financially challenging times. Read More

Strapped after-school programs in need of a boost

Quality after-school programs lead to improved test scores, lower drop-out rates, decreased disciplinary action and improved work habits, according to a 2008 study conducted by researchers at the Harvard Family Research Project. As budget cuts continue, parents and other supporters can do several things to help keep school programs alive. Read More

Back-to-school road safety tips for children and parents

Keeping kids safe never really leaves a parent's mind, but the topic takes center stage for many parents when children return to school. Read More

Rebuilding Detroit

Almost every single list of America's most depressed cities features Detroit at or near the top. Cities like Detroit that were built on industry have suffered in recent decades as manufacturers have taken their business to developing companies with lower production and employment costs. While some would like to paint a bleak picture of Detroit's future, it is important to remember that the city is no worse off than European cities like Belfast or Turin that have managed to rebuild themselves in recent years. Read More

Helping drivers safely share the road with bicyclists and runners

Now that summer is here, avid runners and bicyclists are out in droves, taking advantage of every opportunity to enjoy the activities they love. While it can sometimes be challenging to share the road with them, it's important to keep driving safely top of mind, especially at this time of year. Read More

New hope for old malls

There is new promise for the nation's malls. A fixture throughout America's cities and towns for decades, the conventional mall is in a state of decline. It is possible to rethink yesterday's malls with a creative vision that will return them to their prominent place in communities and realize lasting social, cultural and economic value. For example, just this summer, the former Santa Monica Place in Santa Monica, Calif., was transformed into a new center that, while operated like a mall, feels and functions like a part of the city. Read More