The oldest African-American incorporated town in America just achieved a brand-new designation. The town of Eatonville, Florida, was awarded the Culture of Health Prize by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the nation’s largest philanthropy dedicated to improving health and wellness.

Out of 200 entries, Eatonville was one of only four communities awarded the annual, prestigious prize. For the past several years, the town’s leaders have worked tirelessly to address serious health concerns in the community, including the fact that the town’s incidence of diabetes was more than twice as high as the national average. Thanks to partnerships with several organizations, including the Winter Park Health Foundation, which has invested $3.2 million over the past 17 years in the community, Eatonville has successfully implemented life-saving health programs throughout the town Zora Neale Hurston made famous.

Growing Bolder was there for the special announcement. Hear from city and community leaders, as well as RWJF President Dr. Richard Besser, about this extraordinary honor for “the town that freedom built” and learn how its success can be a model for other communities around the nation. Congratulations to all four communities!

Click here to learn more about how Eatonville heeded a wake-up call to become a healthier town.