By: CAROLINE UNDERWOOD BURMAN
Commitment to a Life Well-lived Takes Hold in Pinecrest
A global spotlight is widening on the Village of Pinecrest, where a staunch devotion to community and a sustained focus on wellbeing continue to inspire this upscale residential community in Miami-Dade County, Florida.
The World Happiness Foundation, a not-for-profit dedicated to bolstering the capabilities of international communities, organizations, and governments – thereby helping people flourish in their day-to-day lives – has partnered with Village leaders to launch the Happy Pinecrest People Initiative, or “HaPPI.”
The year-long pilot program will be anchored by a series of happiness-themed events in Pinecrest, each aimed at enriching the community’s overall welfare.
As Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty associate Jennifer Price explains, the collaboration is a testament to the Village’s distinctive, tight-knit feel and unique mission to enhance its community members’ quality of life. Price, who sits on the Foundation’s global Advisory Board, is also a longtime Pinecrest resident.
“Pinecrest is an incomparable community, and it is a joy to see it recognized for what we residents have known for years!” Price said. “Our Village was recently named in a Niche study as the best neighborhood in Miami, so this initiative will further that status, ensuring that our beloved municipality maintains its foothold as a vibrant and joyful place to live, work, and play.”
With HaPPI having launched in March, a series of first out-of-the-gate focus groups have already generated valuable insights into the community’s perceptions of happiness and wellbeing. As a whole, these discussions will be the crux of a comprehensive approach toward developing a strategic plan to implement actionable strategies that help improve lives. Other important elements of HaPPI include community engagement through focus groups – effectively influencing Pinecrest’s strategic planning, conducting surveys to quantify happiness levels and identify opportunities for quality-of-life improvements, as well as partnering with the Foundation for ongoing expert advice on how best to implement long-term strategies.
“This initiative reflects a deeper understanding that prioritizing wellbeing is not just ethical, but tactical – leading to improved health outcomes, economic growth, and stronger community bonds,” said Luis Gallardo, President of the World Happiness Foundation. “It is remarkable to see the Village of
Pinecrest embrace the values of happiness and wellbeing and put them at the core of city management – reflecting not just wisdom, but care for all residents.”
Community members are encouraged to stay engaged with the program and take part in civic opportunities as Pinecrest integrates wellbeing and happiness into every aspect of Village life. For more details about the Happy Pinecrest People Initiative and how to get involved, visit www.pinecrest-fl.gov/HaPPI.
