Celebrating Pinecrest Becoming the First City of Happiness in the U.S., Certified by the World Happiness Foundation
- Mateo
- May 6
- 2 min read
Updated: May 12
In March 2025, the Village of Pinecrest and the World Happiness Foundation came together to celebrate an important milestone: Pinecrest’s recognition as the first City of Happiness in the United States. The announcement took place during the World Happiness Fest, held at Pinecrest Gardens, with over 500 participants, including thought leaders, wellness advocates, and municipal visionaries.
Paula Dinaro leading her workshop, Alchemy Through Movement: Your Body a Divine Instrument
This certification followed the village’s year-long effort through the Happy Pinecrest People Initiative (HaPPI)—a comprehensive strategy to embed happiness and well-being into the fabric of civic life. The initiative included focus groups, resident surveys, and a 62-page plan aligning with the Foundation’s framework for Cities of Happiness, which empowers local communities to prioritize human flourishing through inclusive governance, emotional well-being, and shared values.
“This is a place where quality of life is not just a luxury, but a fundamental right,” said Luis Gallardo, founder and president of the World Happiness Foundation. “Pinecrest is showing what’s possible when happiness becomes a civic goal.”
Lifeway Kefir, one of the main event sponsors, was represented on-site by the team from Marketing For Wellness and field ambassadors, who shared their probiotic-rich beverages with attendees while highlighting the powerful link between gut health and emotional well-being.
Jennifer Price and Luis Gallardo
The sponsorship was orchestrated by Marketing for Wellness and its founder, Alana Sandel, who believes the future belongs to communities. She works daily with her team to integrate Lifeway into well-being-centered spaces that understand the growing science linking gut health with brain health.
The sponsorship was orchestrated by Marketing for Wellness and its founder, Alana Sandel, who believes the future belongs to communities. She works daily with her team to integrate Lifeway into well-being-centered spaces that understand the growing science linking gut health with brain health.
Cherish your physical and mental well-being with Lifeway’s probiotic-rich kefir and protein-packed farmer cheese—crafted to nourish the body from the inside out.** Packed with 12 live and active cultures, Lifeway Kefir supports digestive balance and immune health, while its smooth texture and tangy taste make it an easy daily ritual. Their farmer cheese offers a clean, high-protein option made from cultured milk, ideal for those seeking a minimally processed, gut-friendly addition to meals and snacks. Together, these products offer a delicious way to support mood, microbiome health, and overall vitality.
Numerous studies have demonstrated that a healthy gut microbiome can influence brain function, emotional regulation, and even long-term mental health. These insights help explain why nurturing the gut with probiotics—like those found in Lifeway Kefir—can support a more positive outlook on life and increased overall happiness.
By supporting events like the World Happiness Fest, Lifeway Kefir continues to align its mission with communities dedicated to well-being, joy, and meaningful connection.
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