Staff Writer | Volunteer Zone
What if living longer and better wasn’t about willpower, but about where you live, work, and play? That’s the idea behind Blue Zones Project® Scottsdale—a community-driven well-being initiative inspired by the lifestyles of the world’s longest-lived people.
Locally sponsored by HonorHealth, Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona, and The Cigna Group, this 4-year, 9-month initiative is focused on reshaping everyday environments—schools, restaurants, grocery stores, worksites, and neighborhoods—so that healthier choices become easier and more natural for everyone.
By the end of 2027, Scottsdale is expected to become a Certified Blue Zones Community®—a milestone recognizing citywide progress in improving well-being, reducing healthcare costs, and increasing quality of life. That transformation is happening through the power of partnerships, with residents, schools, local leaders, and organizations all working together.
Real Changes Happening Now
Across the city, 18 schools are participating in Blue Zones Project, with walk-to-school programs, family wellness events, and a focus on helping students feel a strong sense of belonging. At Echo Canyon School, 100% of students reported feeling connected and supported, while schools like Anasazi and Sequoya have seen high turnout at wellness-themed events and stronger attendance trends.
In the food space, Scottsdale’s first approved grocery store—Zata Mediterranean Market—redesigned its layout to highlight nourishing staples like whole grains, beans, and nuts.
Participating restaurants are also helping residents eat better without sacrificing flavor. Some of the 26 Blue Zones Project Approved™ or participating restaurants include:
- Arcadia Farms Café
- Brat Haus
- Clean Eatz
- d’Lite Healthy on the Go
- Ironwood American Kitchen
- Malee’s Thai Bistro
- Someburros
- Taza Bistro Bar & Catering
- ZuZu at Hotel Valley Ho
Each location features clearly labeled Blue Zones-inspired menu items, marked with a fork-and-knife symbol, to make healthy dining choices simple and delicious.
Worksites are also stepping up—34 sites with more than 11,500 employees are now offering wellness programming, quiet spaces for stress reduction, employee gardens, purpose workshops, and incentives for staying active and engaged. Click here for a complete list of approved places.
How to Get Involved
Blue Zones Project is active throughout the community with walking Moais, cooking demos, volunteer opportunities, and more. Whether you’re interested in healthy living or simply want to connect with others, there’s a way to plug in, check out our events page, or reach out to start your own Moai.
If your organization, workplace, or community group would like to get involved, visit bzpscottsdale.com to learn more and reach out. Let’s build a healthier Scottsdale—together.
