Mayor’s Wellness Campaign Launches C.R.O.W.N.E.D for Middle School Girls

By Samantha Timbers

Atlantic City, NJ — The Mayor’s Wellness Campaign, in partnership with the Multicultural Division, proudly announces the launch of C.R.O.W.N.E.D. (Creative, Resilient, Optimistic Women Navigating Empowered Destinies), a dynamic mental health and empowerment initiative designed to uplift and support middle school girls in Atlantic City.

Funded through a highly competitive grant, C.R.O.W.N.E.D. was created in response to the growing mental health challenges facing adolescent girls nationwide. The program began with 12 middle school students from New York Avenue School and is designed to foster resilience, self-worth, and emotional well-being during a critical stage of development.

Recent studies highlight a troubling decline in adolescent mental health, with social media contributing to unrealistic standards, distorted self-image, anxiety, and depression among youth. C.R.O.W.N.E.D. addresses these challenges head-on by creating safe spaces for dialogue, healing, education, and growth. The program meets twice monthly and features interactive classroom-style sessions, peer support discussions, hands-on workshops, and enrichment excursions.

Through guided conversations and mentorship, participants are encouraged to recognize their intrinsic value, strengthen their confidence, and build supportive peer networks. C.R.O.W.N.E.D. has partnered with AtlantiCare and other community leaders to provide education and resources on critical topics affecting young women today, including:

• Period poverty and menstrual health

• Social media literacy and digital wellness

• Positive body image and self-esteem

• Coping techniques for stress and anxiety

• Leadership development and personal growth

By promoting emotional resilience, self-care, and leadership skills, the program aims to reduce stigma surrounding mental health while empowering young women to lead with confidence and purpose.

As the program continues to grow, the Multicultural Division looks forward to expanding C.R.O.W.N.E.D. throughout the Atlantic City School District to reach and impact even more young women.

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