Community centers help enrich lives of locals

Zhao Wen, a resident of Chengyang district of Qingdao, never imagined the transformation that would happen in the small wasteland and dirty lake in front of the building where he has lived for many years.

The land, once covered with weeds and piles of rubbish, is now a well-equipped, neat and clean outdoor activity center.

"The changes seemed to be a dream. Before 2011, we would rather make a detour to go home because the lake was full of mud and green slime that gave off such a strong, foul odor," Zhao said.