Although local boards of health in New Jersey are responsible for ensuring the development and implementation of public health policy and programs in each of our communities, we have not had a mechanism for bringing local public health concerns to the attention of those who are responsible for developing public health policy at the state and national levels. In addition, local boards of health have not had a mechanism for communicating with each other or for accessing information and training that might improve their ability to lead their communities toward improved health. The New Jersey Local Boards of Health Association was developed to provide those mechanisms.

It is our belief that a grassroots organization of this type can restore some of the resources needed to combat the ever increasing barrage of public health problems. Issues such as AIDS, Lyme Disease, Radon, Drug Resistant TB, Measles, Groundwater Contamination, and protection of our oceans are only some of the issues which you, as local board of health members, must address.

NJLBHA provides unique learning opportunities geared to the needs of local board of health members. In addition to our Annual Meeting, we offer an orientation program for new board members and special issue workshops for all board members.

We serve as your voice on the state and national level. We represent your views on the Public Health issues facing us. The needs of local boards of health are now being represented through NJLBHA with both the executive and legislative branches of state government as well as with our congressional representatives.

Through programs, workshops, and our newsletter, NJLBHA provides opportunities for members of local boards of health, other community leaders and health professionals to meet and exchange ideas.

NJLBHA joins with other key health organizations to bring you special programs and meetings.

The NJBHA email newsletter, “On Board”, is published semi-monthly and disseminated to health leaders throughout the state. Additionally, special mailings are sent out as needed on issues of particular significance.

Membership involvement and commitment is important when pursuing grants. With grants we increase the scope of membership benefits and create leadership opportunities for boards of health.