Asbury Park was called the “Jewel of the Shore” during its heyday of the 19th and early 20th centuries as a popular resort destination.
After a period of decline, Asbury Park is undergoing redevelopment, and the term “Jewel” is now used to describe its potential and its current rebirth. The city is being rediscovered and reinvigorated, attracting a new wave of residents and visitors drawn to its combination of history, culture and revamped attractions.
Adding to the city’s merits, it has been honored with numerous health-related awards such as several Healthy Town Awards from the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute’s Mayors Wellness Campaign. In 2019 the city was designated a “Healthy Town to Watch”. During the pandemic Asbury Park was named a “Healthy Town” for its innovative responses to community health needs in 2020. In 2022 the city was recognized for its gold level efforts in community partnerships which included free health screenings and farmers markets. In 2023 the city received a “Healthy Town” designation for its continued commitment to health and wellness, which included a “Stigma Free Campaign” to address mental health, food security and social connectedness. In 2024 Asbury Park earned another “Healthy Town” designation with a specific focus on achieving food justice for its most vulnerable residents.
The Mayors Wellness Campaign was launched in 2006 in response to the Institute of Medicine’s 2004 report on Preventing Childhood Obesity. The Quality Institute in partnership with New Jersey League of Municipalities created a program to educate and support mayors to address obesity and other health concerns. More than 10 years later with 415 communities participating the Mayor Wellness Campaign has expanded its scope to include evidence -based tools and strategies to mayors and community leaders to help their residents achieve healthier lifestyles as well as improve the health and wellness of their community.
If you would like more information you can visit the NJ Health Care Quality Institute’s website. If you would like to attend the next meetings are October 10th or November 14th at the City Manager’s Conference Room 2nd floor City Hall.
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