Green Bay Reporter

The city of Green Bay has been announced as a 2024 recipient of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Culture of Health Prize. This national award recognizes efforts to promote health, equity, and opportunity within communities.

According to a press release, Green Bay was named one of nine communities selected this year for the prize, which includes a $250,000 award. Since 2013, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) has honored over 60 communities that address structural barriers and improve conditions influencing health through coordinated cross-sector collaboration.

Green Bay's selection was based on initiatives across multiple sectors aimed at improving housing stability, food access, healthcare, and community inclusion. Local government entities, businesses, nonprofits, and residents have implemented a wellbeing framework tracking data on income, safety, housing, health, and social connectedness. These efforts aim to align systems with community needs using locally informed data and input from residents across various backgrounds.

"This award is a testament to the dedication and partnership of Green Bay’s residents, nonprofits, businesses, and local leaders who are working together to ensure everyone in our city has the opportunity to live their healthiest life," said Mayor Eric Genrich. "By centering the lived experiences of our diverse communities and focusing on equity, we are building a city where all voices are heard and all people can thrive."

Genrich has served as mayor since 2019 after three terms representing the 90th Assembly District in the Wisconsin State Assembly. A native of Green Bay with degrees from UW-Madison and UW-Milwaukee, he previously worked in state and federal government as well as an IT librarian. His office is located at Green Bay City Hall where he holds weekly open office hours. Requests for appearances or community support funds can be submitted through designated forms while media inquiries are handled separately by the city.