Creating Communities Where Everyone Thrives: IECF’s Vital Conditions Approach

What it means:  Clean air, water, and soil; healthy ecosystems; accessible green spaces; and a stable climate that supports life and health for present and future generations.

Why it matters:  Our environment fundamentally shapes our health. Communities with clean air and water experience fewer respiratory issues, heat-related illnesses, and toxin-related health problems. Access to nature also improves mental health, reduces stress, and encourages physical activity.

In the Inland Empire:  Many of our communities face environmental challenges including air pollution, water quality concerns, and limited access to green spaces. Climate change impacts like extreme heat and wildfires particularly affect vulnerable populations.

What it means:  Nutritious food, safe drinking water, affordable healthcare, public health infrastructure, and neighborhoods free from violence and hazards.

Why it matters:  When basic needs aren’t met, it’s nearly impossible for people to focus on education, career development, civic engagement, or other aspects of a fulfilling life. Health and safety form the foundation upon which all other opportunities are built.

In the Inland Empire:  Many families struggle with food insecurity, healthcare access, and public safety concerns. These challenges often disproportionately affect communities of color and low-income neighborhoods.

What it means:  Good-paying jobs with benefits, financial security, entrepreneurship opportunities, and the chance to build assets and wealth that can be passed to future generations.

Why it matters:  Economic stability is essential for meeting basic needs and accessing opportunities. Beyond survival, meaningful work provides purpose, dignity, and the resources needed to invest in oneself and one’s community.

In the Inland Empire: Our region faces challenges in creating high-quality jobs, reducing income inequality, and ensuring economic opportunities reach underserved communities. 

What it means: Safe, stable, affordable housing that provides security and supports good health and well-being.

Why it matters: Housing is more than shelter—it’s the center of family life and a platform for health, education, and economic opportunity. Housing instability and homelessness create cascading negative effects across all aspects of life.

In the Inland Empire: Rising housing costs, limited supply, and housing quality concerns affect many residents. Ensuring everyone has access to affordable, quality housing remains one of our most pressing challenges.

What it means: High-quality education at all life stages, from early childhood through adulthood, that provides knowledge, skills, and opportunities for growth and advancement.

Why it matters: Education opens doors to better jobs, higher earnings, improved health outcomes, and greater civic participation. Lifelong learning adapts to our changing world and economy.

In the Inland Empire: Educational outcomes vary widely across our region, with significant disparities by race, ethnicity, and income. 

What it means: Safe, accessible, affordable, and environmentally sustainable transportation options that connect people to jobs, schools, healthcare, social networks, and other vital services.

Why it matters: Mobility is essential for accessing opportunities and resources. Transportation barriers can limit employment options, healthcare access, and social connections.

In the Inland Empire: Our region’s sprawling geography and limited public transit create transportation challenges for many residents, particularly those without personal vehicles. 

What it means: Social support, trusted relationships, inclusive civic participation, and the collective capacity to shape a community’s future.

Why it matters: Human connection and the ability to influence decisions that affect our lives are fundamental to well-being. Strong social bonds and civic engagement help communities weather challenges and create positive change.

In the Inland Empire: Building inclusive civic spaces where all voices are heard and valued will pave the way to overcoming our region’s complex challenges. Strong communities are resilient communities.