Millennials are the largest population in the U.S., the most educated, and the largest wealth generators over the next two decades – yet they are in poorer health than previous generations. Blue Cross Blue Shield Association’s 2019 The Health of Millennials Report found that 8 out of 10 top conditions have double-digit increases among millennials and 6 out of 10 are behavioral health conditions. How we handle their health care challenges could make or break the economy. Because Philadelphia is both a hot spot for millennials and home to world-class health care institutions, we are hopeful that our community can play a leading role in identifying and advancing new physical health and mental health solutions for the millennial generation.
The Economy League of Greater Philadelphia is joining forces with Independence Blue Cross to launch the Well City Challenge - a social impact challenge to engage and support everyday innovators with new creative ideas for addressing Philadelphia’s millennial health and mental health challenges related to three themes: Community and Social Connection, Food and Nutrition, and Mind/Body. These themes are even more important due to the rise of millennial health and mental health challenges during COVID-19, the economic recession, and the rise in the movement to combat racism and social injustice.
The Well City Challenge is focused on Philadelphia and will support community solutions for millennial health and mental health through incubator workshops, a pitch competition, mentorship,