SOMERSET, N.J. - s4story -- Public health leaders and community partners from across New Jersey will unite next month to address how belonging and social connection can transform the health and well-being of our communities.

The New Jersey YMCA State Alliance (YMCA Alliance) will host its 12th Annual Culture of Health Conference on Tuesday, Dec. 9, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at The Palace at Somerset Park in Somerset.

This year's theme, "Belonging For A Better Us," underscores the importance of inclusion, empathy, and shared purpose in shaping the future of public and community health. The event will bring together leaders from health care, education, philanthropy, business, and community-based organizations to advance dialogue and action around health and opportunity for all.

"The Y is inviting participants to reimagine what it means to belong, not only as individuals, but as communities that thrive when everyone has the opportunity to realize their full potential," said YMCA Alliance President and CEO Julie Gallanty. "By focusing on belonging, we strengthen the fabric of our communities and the systems that support health and well-being for all."

Dr. Gail C. Christopher to Headline Conference

The conference will feature Dr. Gail C. Christopher, a nationally recognized leader in health and social change, as keynote speaker. Dr. Christopher serves as executive director of the National Collaborative for Health Equity and formerly served as senior advisor and vice president at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, where she led the America Healing initiative and launched the Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation movement.

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Widely regarded for her pioneering work addressing the social determinants of health, Dr. Christopher has spent her career advancing racial healing and building just, healthy, and resilient communities. She is also a prolific writer, contributing to over 14 books and hundreds of publications.

Conference to Focus on Seven Vital Conditions for Well-Being

Nearly 20 breakout sessions will engage participants in conversations and activities aligned with the Seven Vital Conditions for Well-Being, a framework popularized by the Rippel Foundation that helps conceptualize the factors influencing health and thriving communities.

The Seven Vital Conditions for Well-Being include:

• Belonging & Civic Muscle
• Humane Housing
• Lifelong Learning
• Thriving Natural World
• Meaningful Work & Wealth
• Basic Needs for Health & Safety
• Reliable Transportation

Topics will range from accessible transportation and community-based solutions for food security to YMCA housing initiatives and wraparound care that strengthen families and neighborhoods.

Registration, Sponsorship Opportunities Available

Now in its 12th year, the Culture of Health Conference is one of New Jersey's premier convenings of public health and community leaders. The annual event provides a platform for collaboration, innovation, and shared learning to build healthier, more equitable communities across the state.

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Registration and sponsorship opportunities for the 2025 conference are now open at https://www.njymca.org/culture-of-health. More information is available by sending an email to: conference@njyalliance.org.

Gallanty noted that the Alliance leads a coalition of 30 independent YMCA associations throughout New Jersey, and serves as an advocate to advance public policy, statewide initiatives and strategic partnerships that help improve community health and well-being for families.

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.