Imagine if everyone in North Carolina — no matter where they live — had a real chance to live a long, healthy life. That’s the vision behind Healthy North Carolina 2030 (HNC 2030). HNC 2030 is a bold, 10-year plan to make our state healthier. It works to address root causes of poor health, including housing, education and poverty.
On July 16, more than 100 people from across the state came together online for the 2025 NC State Health Improvement Plan (NC SHIP) Community Council Annual Meeting. Educators, doctors, community leaders and faith groups shared ideas and progress on making NC healthier for everyone.
What is HNC 2030 and Why It Matters
Healthy NC 2030 is a community-driven plan that tracks 21 key health measures (PDF). These measures reflect social, economic and environmental factors that affect health.
The NC SHIP puts this plan into action. It helps programs, policies and partners work together to improve the health and well-being of all North Carolinians.
What’s Working Across the State
Groups from across North Carolina shared what’s working in their communities, including:
- Training over 100 rural faith leaders in suicide prevention
- Reducing short-term school suspensions for young children
- Increasing access to doulas and paid family leave
- Using data to track opioid deaths and alcohol-related ER visits
- Promoting brain health and fall prevention for older adults
- Expanding community health workers, child care access and funding for local health programs
These efforts are making a real difference in people’s lives.
Why This Matters for You
Whether you’re raising a family, caring for a parent or working in your community, NC SHIP’s work touches your life. Together, we’re focusing on:
- More children reading at grade level
- Fewer deaths from preventable overdoses
- Better support for childbearing people and babies
- Safer, stable housing for families
- Greater access to quality local care
This isn’t just a plan — it’s a statewide movement, powered by people who care about North Carolina’s future.
What’s Next
The NC SHIP Community Council is continuing the work by:
- Tracking progress
- Building new partnerships
- Adapting strategies to meet new challenges
Some groups are still developing strategies to make long-lasting change across the state.
Get Involved or Learn More
- Visit the Healthy NC 2030 and NC SHIP website
- Watch the 2025 Annual Meeting Recording (YouTube)
- Explore the 2025 Slide Deck and Scorecard
- Contact: Ashley Rink, NC SHIP Community Partnership Manager, ashley.rink@dhhs.nc.gov
Together, we can make North Carolina a healthier place for everyone.
Related blog: 5 Takeaways from the 2024 NC SHIP Community Council Annual Meeting