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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the World Happiness Foundation, our programs and how to get involved.
Last updated: June 7, 2026
What is the World Happiness Foundation?
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The World Happiness Foundation (WHF) is an international 501(c)3 nonprofit registered in Florida, USA, founded in 2018 by Luis Gallardo. We advance the well-being of 10 billion people by 2050 through education, events, research and community in more than 45 countries. WHF holds Consultative Special Status with the United Nations ECOSOC.
What is happiness, in the way the Foundation defines it?
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We define happiness as the sustained experience of flourishing — a life of meaning, positive relationships, freedom, consciousness, health and contribution to others. It is both a personal inner state and a social condition that institutions can intentionally cultivate.
How is the Foundation funded?
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WHF is funded by individual donations, sponsorships of the World Happiness Fest, partnerships with organizations and institutions, Academy program tuition, and grants from foundations aligned with our mission. As a 501(c)3 in the United States, donations from U.S. taxpayers are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law.
What is the World Happiness Fest?
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The World Happiness Fest is our flagship annual gathering, hosted across 15+ cities and online, bringing together more than 100 speakers from science, contemplative traditions, the arts, business and government to share practices and research on flourishing.
What is the Chief Well-Being Officer (CWBO) program?
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The Chief Well-Being Officer is a certified Academy program that prepares leaders to embed happiness, mental health and human flourishing into the strategy and culture of organizations, schools and cities.
How can I get involved or volunteer?
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You can become a Partner, participate in our initiatives, host a Global Agora in your city, or donate. Visit our Get Involved page to choose the path that fits you best.
How do I donate, and is my donation tax-deductible?
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Donations can be made on our Donate page. World Happiness Foundation Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity in Florida, USA (EIN available on request), so donations from U.S. taxpayers are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
Where is the Foundation headquartered?
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Our registered office is at 10275 Collins Avenue, Bal Harbour, FL 33154, USA. Our team and Global Agora hosts operate from cities across the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia and Oceania.
Is the Foundation affiliated with the United Nations?
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Yes. The World Happiness Foundation holds Consultative Special Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), allowing us to contribute to UN processes related to well-being, sustainable development and human rights.
How can my school, company or city become an Ecosystem of Happiness?
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Our Ecosystems of Happiness program works with schools, enterprises, hospitals, cities and destinations to transform culture, leadership and structures toward human flourishing. Contact us via the Become a Partner page to start a conversation.
How can I contact the World Happiness Foundation?
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You can reach us at hello@worldhappiness.foundation or via the Contact Us page on this site.