Heart & Soul Implementation Guides

Finished a planning process and ready to implement?

Check out our Heart & Soul Implementation Guides, which outline on-the-ground action designed to better prepare your town for successful implementation of a range of planning goals. Here are the first five in a series of ten Implementation Guides, which will ultimately be published along with the Heart & Soul Handbook.

Enhancing Local Character

The character of a community can inspire civic pride as well as economic vitality. Use this Guide to identify actions that could enhance your community’s distinctiveness and sustainability.

Encouraging Inclusive, Local Government

Local governments are learning that a cooperative, transparent approach is more effective and efficient than a closed-door approach. Use this Guide to support your community’s progress toward good governance.

Promoting Housing Opportunities

Housing choice and affordability can attract positive growth and support diverse community relationships. Use this Guide to build your community’s opportunities for accessible housing for all ages and backgrounds.

Supporting Local Businesses and Jobs

Local businesses and employment are the cornerstones of any prosperous community. Use this Guide to prepare your community to steward its local economy long into the future.

Fostering A Sense of Community

A strong sense of community generates social capital in the form of volunteerism, civic engagement and a high quality of life. Use this Guide to understand and foster the special attributes that make your town a great place to live.