Local Heroes Changing America

Stories of extraordinary men and women who are making their communities better places to live.

This stunning and inspiring book of photography and first-person narratives celebrates the remarkable people who, against staggering odds, are overcoming social, economic, and personal differences to improve their local communities and better people's lives. From volunteer crime patrols in Delray Beach, Florida, to marine conservation along the North Pacific Coast of Alaska, from migrant farm workers building homes in the Rio Grande Valley to youth empowerment on Chicago's Southwest Side, these encounters with real life and real people show us that we all have a role to play in our own communities. Each community represents examples of change, inviting reflection on our own values, beliefs, and commitment to the place we call home.

Bill Burke, Lynn Davis, Lauren Greenfield, Reagan Louie, Danny Lyon, Sylvia Plachy, and Eli Reed are among the world-renowned photographers who have contributed to the book. The accompanying CD is narrated by the individuals featured in the book. Local Heroes Changing Lives is the centerpiece of the Indivisible Project (www.indivisible.org) funded by the Pew Charitable Trust.

Photography exhibition will tour to: Chicago, Akron, San Antonio, Tuscon, Raleigh, San Diego, Sarasota, Philadelphia, and Anchorage. 120 color and 120 black-and-white photographs