On Tuesday we brought together mayors, health care leaders, funders, government officials, and community advocates to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Mayors Wellness Campaign (MWC) — a milestone that recognized two decades of local leadership advancing health and wellness in communities throughout New Jersey.  

The underlying theme of our gathering was the extraordinary importance of local leadership in building healthier communities and improving quality of life for residents of all ages. At a time when federal health funding faces cuts, and public health and science endure unprecedented attacks, local leadership has never mattered more.  

Over the past 20 years, the Mayors Wellness Campaign has demonstrated that communities can make a meaningful difference when local leaders come together around health. Founded in 2006 by the Quality Institute in partnership with the New Jersey State League of Municipalities, the initiative began with a focus on increasing physical activity, improving nutrition, and preventing chronic disease. Since then, it has expanded to more than 400 municipalities across New Jersey and evolved into a broad community health initiative addressing issues ranging from mental health and food security to healthy aging, social connection, advance care planning, and health equity.  

On Tuesday, our keynote, Richard E. Besser, MD, President of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, a steadfast supporter of the Quality Institute’s work, emphasized the value of local leadership at a time of changing federal priorities. 

“Communities that are closest to the challenges and problems are also closest to the solutions,” Dr. Besser said. “The work of the Mayors Wellness Campaign and what’s happening across communities to address health challenges gives me hope for the future at a time when we are so divided as a nation.” 

We also heard from Raynard E. Washington, Ph.D., MPH, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Health, who shared his excitement around the MWC. “Because the program is rooted in communities where the work is happening, towns get the opportunity to look at data. That provides exciting opportunities. Towns will be challenged to figure out how to solve the tough issues they face,” Dr. Washington said. “They get a chance to do something that we don’t often get to do in government — they get to try something. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t. I come to this role in state government from local government, and so I am uniquely filled with passion and excitement for the work happening here.” 

Sen. Joseph F. Vitale, meanwhile, shared his longstanding connection to the Mayors Wellness Campaign dating back to its early years. As former mayor of Woodbridge, Sen. Vitale understands how local leaders, including mayors, look to the Quality Institute for support and technical advice. 

“I see firsthand how the work of the Mayors Wellness Campaign really makes a difference for people in my towns. The other mayors here today see that as well,” Sen. Vitale said. “Towns are dedicating themselves to getting involved in health and wellness, and the work of the Quality Institute remains invaluable.” 

Finally, Mike Cerra, Executive Director of the NJ State League of Municipalities, and Julie DeSimone, Vice President of Community Health for the Quality Institute, provided insight into how the MWC has expanded, and now, for instance, uses data and community input to identify needs and measure impact.  

Julie poignantly shared the personal impact of the MWC. 

“Beyond all data in the programs, we get to hear about families running their first 5K together, a high schooler who’s teaching older adult how to use their cell phone so that they can stay connected in this continually changing world. … someone making their first doctor appointment after a community health fair.” 

At our gathering, we also shared a slideshow featuring photographs and memories from the past 20 years. The slideshow showcased innovative programs from chair yoga and recreation programs to nutrition initiatives, health fairs, and COYL workshops. You will see programs in parks and libraries, town halls and senior centers, downtowns and public beaches.  

Over the past 20 years, the Mayors Wellness Campaign has shown that when communities commit to health and wellness in practical, sustained ways, the impact can be significant and lasting.