MONTCLAIR, N.J. - Marylandian -- What: The New Jersey YMCA State Alliance (the Alliance) and Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey (Horizon) are hosting a joint news conference with a moderated Q&A to announce their latest collaboration to increase access to and affordability of YMCA memberships for Horizon's members living in the Garden State.

Why: A staggering 14.9 percent of New Jersey adults rate their health as fair or poor according to a recent study by the Chronic Care Policy Alliance, underlining a high prevalence of life-threatening chronic diseases, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer. Learn how the Alliance and Horizon are partnering to improve health and overall well-being for New Jerseyans of all ages.

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When: The news conference is set for 10 a.m. – 11 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 22.

Where: YMCA of Montclair, 25 Park St, Montclair, NJ 07042

Who: Speakers /Topics

• Jonathan Pearson, Horizon's Executive Director, Corporate Social Responsibility, Horizon's Commitment
• Julie Gallanty, Alliance CEO, Ys in NJ Supporting Health Together
• Robert Davidson, CEO, Mental Health Association of Morris and Essex, Physical Health's Impact on Mental Health
• Buddy Evans, CEO, YMCA of Montclair, Closing Remarks

Photo Ops: YMCA member testimonial, YMCA advocates

About the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance
The New Jersey YMCA State Alliance is a statewide nonprofit organization leading a coalition of 30 independent YMCA associations. Through public policy, statewide initiatives, strategic partnerships, and service delivery, the Alliance fosters a greater ability for YMCAs, community partners and leaders across the state to impact families, improve community health and advance equity. Our collective voice strengthens local communities while promoting youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. For more information, visit www.njymca.org.

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About Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, the state's leading health solutions company, and its affiliates provide a wide array of medical, dental, vision and prescription insurance products and services. Horizon BCBSNJ is leading the transformation of health care in New Jersey by working with doctors and hospitals to deliver innovative, patient-centered programs that are improving healthcare quality, cost, and convenience. Horizon BCBSNJ is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association serving approximately 3.8 million members. HorizonbFitSM is a service mark of Horizon. Learn more at HorizonBlue.com.