The event is designed to promote health awareness among West Virginia’s minority communities while strengthening connections between residents and community-based organizations.
“Improving health begins with awareness, access and action,” said LaDawna Walker Dean, of the WV Minority Health Initiative at the Marshall University Minority Health Institute. “The West Virginia Minority Health Fair is designed to connect individuals and families with trusted health resources, encourage preventive care and inspire healthier communities. When we work together to eliminate barriers to care, we create opportunities for everyone to achieve better health outcomes.”
Walker founded the WV Minority Health Fair in 2018 through the Minority Health Institute at Marshall University. In addition to health information and community vendors, the fair will feature food, music, inflatables, prizes and other activities. The event is open to the community.
“Strong communities are built through strong partnerships,” said Dr. Anthony T. Woart, chair of the Department of Public Health in the College of Health Professions and director of the Minority Health Institute. “When healthcare providers and community organizations come together, we can remove barriers to care, increase access to vital services, and empower individuals to take charge of their health. The West Virginia Minority Health Fair reflects our shared commitment to improving health outcomes for all West Virginians.”
The event’s main sponsor is Wellpoint. Walgreens, Marshall Health, WVABLE, the Marshall University Minority Health Institute and 45 other groups from the community will be vendors at this year’s fair.
The fair is free and open to the public. For more information, contact LaDawna Walker at LaDawna.Walker@marshall.edu.