SOMERSET, N.J. - s4story -- More than 250 leaders from health care, education, business, philanthropy, community organizations, and YMCAs across New Jersey gathered on December 9 for the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance's 12th Annual Culture of Health Conference. This year's theme, "Belonging For A Better Us," underscored the essential role of connection, trust, and shared purpose in shaping community well-being and ensuring every person has the opportunity to thrive.

Diana Zita, chair of the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance Board and CEO of the Hamilton Area YMCA, welcomed participants and set the tone for the daylong conference, which took place at The Palace at Somerset Park.

"I've had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how the Y brings people together, creating spaces where everyone belongs, where differences are celebrated, and where communities become stronger through connection," she said. "Today's conference is a perfect example of that spirit in action."

Keynote Address Spotlights Measurable Change

The conference featured keynote speaker Dr. Gail Christopher, an award-winning social change agent, author, and nationally recognized expert on the social determinants of health and well-being. She was introduced by Amber Randolph, associate vice president at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the event's main sponsor.

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In her keynote address, "Hope in Action: Communities Working Together for Measurable Change," Dr. Christopher explored how stress, belonging, and community conditions directly influence health outcomes. She emphasized the deep biological effects of long-term stress and the urgent need for environments that foster safety, connection, and compassion.

"It really behooves us to figure out how to maintain joy, and peace and calm and compassion so that we bring our bodies back into the state of metabolic balance so that health and healing is the natural state," said Dr. Christopher, executive director of the National Collaborative for Health Equity.

She explained that when people feel alienated, threatened, anxious, or disconnected and their bodies remain in a prolonged stress response, it can contribute to chronic diseases. Communities, she reminded attendees, play a powerful role in restoring balance through belonging, empathy, and collective action.

Sharing Strategies to Strengthen Community Well-Being

Throughout the day, leaders and practitioners shared ideas, research, and strategies that strengthen the "vital conditions" for well-being, including belonging, humane housing, meaningful work, reliable transportation, lifelong learning, and a healthy natural environment. Breakout sessions and panel discussions highlighted collaborative approaches that are helping New Jersey communities reduce disparities, expand opportunities, and build trust.

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Julie Gallanty, CEO of the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance, reflected on the progress being made across the state and the importance of continued partnership.

"We're honored to host a conference devoted to bringing diverse voices together to help create healthier, more connected communities for all New Jerseyans," she said. "This work only moves forward when we work forward, together."

In the spirit of giving, attendees donated coats and winter wear to benefit the United Way of Northern New Jersey, extending the conference's message of compassion and community into tangible support for neighbors in need.

About the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance
The New Jersey YMCA State Alliance is a statewide nonprofit organization leading a coalition of 30 independent YMCA associations. Through public policy, statewide initiatives, strategic partnerships, and service delivery, the Alliance fosters a greater ability for YMCAs, community partners and leaders across the state to impact families, improve community health and advance equity. Our collective voice strengthens local communities while promoting youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. For more information, visit www.njymca.org.