In April 2003, Gainesville became known as the "Healthiest Community in America" when it won the only "Gold Well City" award given by the Wellness Councils of America (WELCOA). Headed up by Gainesville Health & Fitness Centers, and with the support of Shands HealthCare and the Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce, 21 businesses comprising 60 percent of the city's workforce became involved in the "Gold Well City" effort. As of July 2011, Gainesville remained the only city in the country to win the award.
In April 2003 Gainesville became known as the "Healthiest Community in America" when it won the only "Gold Well City" award given by the Wellness Councils of America (WELCOA) Headed up by Gainesville Health & Fitness Centers and with the support of Shands HealthCare and the Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce 21 businesses comprising 60 percent of the city's workforce became involved in the "Gold Well City" effort As of July 2011 Gainesville remained the only city in the country to win the award