In June 2023, the HHF team identified disparities in health outcomes across Erie's communities.
Recognizing a need for leadership focused on addressing these health issues, we formed BUILD, a nonprofit community development corporation.
Building a Healthier Community
We understand that health is influenced by factors beyond medical care. These factors, including education, employment, housing security, neighborhood conditions, and access to transportation and nutritious food, are known as the social drivers of health (SDoH). They encompass the social, economic, and environmental aspects that significantly impact a person's health outcomes and overall quality of life. Understanding and addressing SDoH is crucial for advancing health equity and improving population health outcomes.
In Erie's city limits, profound disparities in life expectancy exist. Access to resources and opportunities varies greatly depending on one's zip code, underscoring the urgent need for intervention.
BUILD, our initiative dedicated to addressing these disparities, focuses on four key areas identified through comprehensive data analysis from sources such as the U.S. Census Bureau and the Erie County Department of Health, and local insights from partners like Love Your Block, UPMC Count Me In, and Erie Center for Arts & Technology. By targeting these focus areas, we strive to create meaningful, lasting change and improve health outcomes for Erie residents.
Trusted Access to Health Care
We will provide access to services, through strategic community-level interventions, that achieve health outcome parity between Erie zip codes.
Key initiatives:
- Remote Area Medical (RAM) Clinic at ECAT Wayne, 2025
- UPMC Health Plan Neighborhood Center
- Neighborhood Outreach Coordinator
- Enrollment Navigators
- Annual Health Fairs at ECAT Wayne
Safe & Affordable Housing
We will increase the stability of Erie's housing sector by providing opportunities for residents to attain safe, healthy homes.
Key Initiatives:
- Permanent Supportive Housing
- Health-focused Home Repairs
Career & Workforce Development
We will remove barriers to affordable education and increase financial well-being by responding to industry needs and facilitating opportunities for skills training.
Key Initiatives & Partnerships:
- UPMC Jameson at Hamot School of Nursing
- ECAT Workforce Training Programs
- Construction Trades Training Program
- Sterile Processing
- Clinical Medical Assistant
- Freedom House Foundations
Thriving Neighborhoods
We will develop and advance community-focused initiatives that improve the quality of life for residents in areas of disinvestment.
Key Initiatives:
- Wayne Campus Expansion
- Food Security Programs
- Community Events
- Wayne Health & Wealth Equity District
Our Values
Equity Focused
We recognize that disparities in equity have a disproportionate impact on marginalized communities in Erie. Advancing health equity is a central component of our decision-making framework; we prioritize development in areas of greatest need and opportunity to build a healthier community for all.
Collaborative
Strong coalitions are essential for inclusive development. We facilitate connections, advance the work of our partners, and work alongside other leaders in driving change, advocating for opportunities, and leveraging resources to bring about positive and lasting impact.
Community-Based
We believe our neighbors should have a decisive voice in shaping their communities and futures. We work in partnership with residents and community leaders to develop projects and initiatives that address disparities in the City of Erie and enhance the unique assets of communities.
Data Driven
Guided by reliable data, and through rigorous evaluation, we create sustainable, long-term, and measurable impact in areas of greatest need.
