As South Carolina continues to grow, so does the need for communities that support safe, accessible, and inclusive transportation options. Roads must accommodate more than just vehicles—they must serve people. When residents can move around safely—whether walking, biking, rolling in a wheelchair, or using public transit—health improves, local economies thrive, and communities become more connected.
In partnership with the Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity Prevention Section at South Carolina Department of Public Health, Wholespire hosted the South Carolina Walkability and Active Transportation Workshop Series, designed to equip public health professionals and community leaders with the tools to create healthier, more walkable environments.
The first session welcomed over 100 participants from 43 communities, who learned from national experts Mark Fenton and Karma Edwards. They explored the concept of walkability, its impact on public health, and the importance of cross-sector collaboration—highlighting that this work isn’t just for engineers. Participants left with a deeper understanding of how to engage partners and move projects forward in their own communities.
From there, 32 participants continued into the second session, where they learned how to use PhotoVoice—a participatory tool that helps communities document and communicate their mobility challenges. Forty two people from eight communities completed the exercise and joined a one-day, in-person workshop in Sumter, where they worked alongside experts to develop actionable plans using maps, PhotoVoice presentations, and partnership strategies.
Each community brought together a multidisciplinary team, including public health professionals, elected officials, planners, transportation experts, and community representatives. They were encouraged to expand their partnerships to include chambers of commerce, tourism, arts, schools, and economic developers—all vital voices in shaping community mobility.
Thanks to funding from Diabetes Free SC, Wholespire awarded financial support to seven communities to implement their action plans this fall. Projects include:
- Temporary pop-up crosswalks to improve student safety during peak school hours.
- High-visibility crosswalks and signage in high traffic areas.
- Permanent crosswalks connecting schools to recreation sites.
- Curb extension demonstrations to improve pedestrian safety and connection to healthcare.
- Wayfinding signage to guide cyclists along safer routes.
These projects are already underway, and we look forward to sharing their successes soon.
To build on this momentum, Wholespire has launched the Community Mobility Ambassador Training, a hybrid series designed for community members and coalitions who want to lead mobility efforts locally. Participants will gain:
- A foundational understanding of walkability and active transportation.
- Insight into policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) change strategies.
- Tools to build effective, cross-sector partnerships.
- Skills to lead walk audits and analyze community data.
- A community-driven action plan shaped by participatory methods like PhotoVoice.
The training includes two virtual sessions and one half-day action planning workshop, with technical assistance and homework between sessions. The suggested timeframe is 4–6 months, allowing participants to apply what they learn in real time.
Ready to get involved?
Whether you’re a community leader, public health professional, or passionate resident, we invite you to be part of the movement toward healthier, more connected communities. Contact us at info@wholespire.org to learn more about the Community Mobility Ambassador Training and other initiatives.