Obesity among children and adults has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. This condition has proven difficult to treat effectively, especially in terms of sustainable weight loss. The project described in this report embarked on multidimensional, community-based efforts to prompt a national discussion of the obesity issue and the need for multidimensional approaches in both research and education. A University of Wyoming-based research team developed the Wellness IN (WIN) the Rockies project to emphasize a health-centered approach that focused on three key parameters: (1) physical activity; (2) body image; and (3) food choice behaviors. While elementary-school children were a targeted intervention group, programs and policies throughout the community were assessed relative to their impacts on these parameters. Participating communities were in rural areas of Wyoming, Idaho and Montana. The preliminary study found that adults with a higher Body Mass Index were more likely to drink sweetened beverages, order super-sized portions, eat while doing other activities and participate in less physical activity. Body dissatisfaction was associated with a decreased likelihood to participate in physical activity. The project engaged local citizens and gave them access to a number of different community-based intervention techniques. Communities initiated physical activities, such as walking programs. In preparation for the activities, project staff distributed pedometers to help motivate and reinforce behavioral change. Strategically placed billboards replaced counter-productive advertising with messages about valuing health. Simultaneously, health awareness programs in the schools encouraged students to take this important health message home to influence family behavior. WIN the Rockies team members served as catalysts to community change, but local leaders emerged to assure long-term viability of the programs for the community. A Web site developed during the WIN the Rockies project continues to impact research and education about healthy lifestyles and weight, offering resources at no cost to educators and health care providers. WIN the Rockies is being integrated into existing programs and services to extend the influence of the project into the future