World Happiness Foundation names Pinecrest ‘City of Happiness.’
Over a year ago, the well-established Village of Pinecrest, Florida, made a quiet yet impactful entry onto the global stage. Located in the heart of Miami-Dade County, this forward-thinking community launched the Happy Pinecrest People Initiative (HaPPI) — a bold move aimed at fostering happiness and well-being for its 18,000+ residents. Developed in collaboration with the World Happiness Foundation, the pilot program was presented in a comprehensive 62-page document in early 2025. The result was a momentous achievement: Pinecrest became the first “City of Happiness” in the United States, a recognition that underscores the community’s deep commitment to the joy and well-being of its residents.
For Pinecrest, happiness is more than just a feel-good sentiment — it’s a way of life. “Our commitment to becoming a City of Happiness reflects our dedication to enhancing the quality of life for all residents and serving as a model for communities worldwide,” said Mayor Joseph Corradino. “The Village of Pinecrest connects happiness with core priorities like economic vitality and personal well-being, proving that when we prioritize our residents’ happiness, our community thrives.
Over the course of the research-collecting period, residents and community leaders participated in focus groups to share their personal visions of happiness. The initiative sparked a deep engagement within the community, shaping Pinecrest’s long-term goals and aspirations. In partnership with the World Happiness Foundation, Pinecrest tapped into the global expertise that has propelled other cities around the world to prioritize well-being. A meticulously crafted survey gauged the collective happiness of the community, providing a roadmap for targeted improvements.
But the real magic happened in March 2025, when Pinecrest played host to the World Happiness Fest at its beloved Pinecrest Gardens. This two-day global gathering drawing over 500 participants, held in honor of International Day of Happiness, was co-chaired by World Happiness Foundation Advisory Board Members, Jennifer Price, Global Real Estate Advisor of Berkshire Hathaway EWM Realty, and Elle Ullmann, of MELT Music & Media Agency. The annual Fest brought together a dynamic mix of thought leaders, wellness advocates, and change-makers.
Luis Gallardo, the visionary founder of the World Happiness Foundation, was effusive in his praise of Pinecrest’s pioneering efforts. “What Pinecrest has achieved is nothing short of inspiring,” he said. “By placing happiness and well-being at the heart of their mission, they’ve set a powerful example for cities everywhere. This is a place where quality of life is not just a luxury, but a fundamental right.”
The Village’s pursuit of happiness isn’t a fleeting trend — it’s a long-term commitment to making well-being a cornerstone of daily life.
