Health, Job And Education Fair Planned For October 22

The very first Fall Into Health Fair, took place at Seward County Community College in October 2009. The event became a health, job and education fair in 2010 with an added emphasis of services for veterans and emergency responders.

“The health fairs in the past had around 20 some booths and approximately 200 people attended,” Southwest Medical Center Public Relations Director Nancy Kletecka said. “In 2009, we had 64 booths and almost 600 people. The event grew again in 2010, where we had an estimated 700 people go through the doors and more than 70 vendors.”

What is helping this event continue to grow?

“It is our sponsors,” Kletecka said. “Many health fairs are funded either by their local government entities or through sponsorships. We had a number of businesses and organizations who have generously donated money each year to make this happen. And of course, the media that have gotten on board with his event have been invaluable with their support.”

The Health, Job and Education Fair Committee , made up of representatives from various local and area businesses and entities, is looking for sponsorships again this year.

“Last year we were able to raise enough money in order to offer the normally more than $700 testing at $25 per individual,” Kletecka said. “It had been set at $35, but a t the last minute a large donation made it possible for us to reduce that cost to $25. We eventually would like to make this free; however, we can’t do that unless we are able to secure enough in sponsorships . We have had businesses donate, individuals, organizations… and the amount they donate varies. No amount is considered too small.”

Why is the health fair important?

“Taking care of your health is very important,” Kletecka said. “Especially in these economic times – one of the best investments you can make is in yourself . We have had several e ach year who were referred on for further testing by their physicians.”

Organizers have a lot of activities planned for this year’s event.

“We will once again have the 5K Walk or Run hosted by Liberal Parks and Rec, demonstrations by Rine’s Karate and a Zumba class and of course all of the various services offered by our vendors,” Kletecka said. “ We will h ave the battery of tests done by the hospital’s lab, as well as clinical breast exams, bone density exams, vision screening, and the Seward County Health Department will be offering flu shots again this year.”

The flu shot will be an additional charge as will cancer screenings.

“The Health Department has not yet determined how much they will be charging for the flu shots and if you want the cancer screening, it is an additional $5,” Kletecka said. “ The fee for the battery of tests being done by the hospital lab has been set at $35 this y ear; however, that could change.Ii f we get enough sponsorships in before time for the event – we will look at lowering the price again . ”

Although the deadline has passed for vendors, Kletecka said the committee has decided to extend it .

“If anyone would like to have a booth at the fair, they can contact me up until October 7,” Kletecka said.

Another event planned in conjunction with the fair is a dinner for veterans.

“Veterans are able to eat for free and anyone else can eat for a very nominal fee,” Kletecka said. “This is a wonderful event and Ed Poley of Whirlwind Career Counseling has worked hard to make it an enjoyable and informative time .”

Kletecka said although sponsors and vendors are important to the success of the event, participants are also vital.

“ H ealth is our ‘everything’,” Kletecka said. “Whether you are a child , a teenager or an adult – good health enables us to not only perform the daily functions of life, but to enjoy them as well. It enables us to fulfill our dreams and goals in life. By attending a health fair and being tested, you are taking proactive steps to make sure you are in the best health possible. If something is caught early enough it can have a much more positive and healthy outcome.”

This year’s Fall Into Health Fair is planned for October 22 at Seward County Activity Center from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Those planning to participate in the fair should plan to fast for at least eight hours prior to coming to have blood work done. If you would like to be a sponsor for this event, would like a booth, or need more information, contact Kletecka at 620-629-6335 or via email at [email protected] . If you would like to attend the veteran’s dinner call Poley at 620-624-7684. To participate in the 5K, contact Liberal Parks and Rec at 620-626-0132.