As 2020 comes to its eagerly awaited close, we decided to revisit some of our favorite “What Works” stories of the year. Our “What Works” department is devoted to examining how Westerners come together to try to solve problems. They don’t always succeed, but there’s generally a lot to be learned from the attempt, and there’s almost always an engaging and insightful story to be told. From an Oregon helpline created to get crucial COVID-19 information to speakers of Mam, an Indigenous Mayan language, to a community program meant to help tenants in San Francisco avoid eviction, these tales highlight the resiliency of Westerners during this tumultuous year. Meanwhile, we’re already looking ahead to a better 2021, when we’ll continue to bring you “What Works” stories from across the West.
A helpline connects Indigenous immigrants to crucial COVID-19 information
For communities who speak Indigenous Mayan languages like Mam, this Oregon program has been a vital resource.
Can new bus lines chart a course to better travel options in the West?
A European bus company is expanding options for regional travel. High-speed rail could be next.
Virtual house calls flourish in the age of coronavirus
COVID-19 has pushed health care into cyberspace — and some rural practitioners might stay there.
The old-school organizers who got it done on Zoom
How the country’s oldest organizing group won COVID-19 relief for undocumented immigrants in California.
The housing policy that’s turning back gentrification
In the wake of COVID-19, some California cities are introducing tenant protections.
Email High Country News at editor@hcn.org or submit a letter to the editor.
Republish our articles for free, online or in print, under a Creative Commons license.
