Pivotal to most of the community programs and initiatives supported by Healthy Cities Illawarra is a commitment to strengthening community connections and developing the community's capacity to address its health and wellbeing issues.

Over many years, this has resulted in Healthy Cities Illawarra being involved in a wide range of community building initiatives, including community based workshops, arts and cultural projects, 'placemaking' projects, supporting local interagencies and participating in service development networks.