Lifestyle & Trends

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.

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.

Social media: The best advertising money can't buy for your small business

Used to be, a diligent small business owner with a great idea and plenty of gumption could grow a business through word of mouth alone. In many ways, that's still true. Yet today, much of the "word of mouth" conversations and recommendations, which can make or break a business, are happening online, not face to face.

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.

Teens: Join Twilight's Nikki Reed to 'do something' good this summer

Are you a teen that is going to camp, hosting a neighborhood block party, or playing baseball this summer? Are you a parent who wants to encourage your child to do something good for others or get more involved in their community? This summer, join the Do Something 101 school supply drive: www.dosomething101.org.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Small clubs and organizations need to get savvy to stay afloat

Times are tough and budgets are tight for everyone, including small organizations and clubs. Membership is more and more difficult to cultivate, which stymies the group's income. Existing members, who sometimes end up picking up the financial slack, are often forced to choose between participating in something that's meaningful to them and simply getting all their household bills paid.

Lifestyle Trends