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.
�??We have continued to grow since the inception of the committee to bring this invaluable service to the community began in 2009,�?� said Southwest Medical Center Marketing and Development Director Nancy Kletecka. �??The number of vendors who are participating and the attendees continue to reaffirm how important this event is.�?�
The success of the event is largely due to the sponsors who have taken �??ownership�?� in the event.
�??Many health fairs are funded either by their local government entities or through sponsorships,�?� Kletecka said. �??We have a number of businesses and organizations who generously donate money each year to make this happen. And of course, the media that have gotten on board with this 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 to $900 in testing at a very nominal fee per individual,�?� Kletecka said. �??It is the donations we receive that make this possible. 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 each year referred on for further testing by their physicians due to the results of the tests done at this event.�?�
Organizers are working hard to make this year�??s event bigger and better than ever.
�??We will once again have a 5K Walk or Run hosted by Liberal Parks and Rec, as well as some other things going on during the day not to mention the various services and products that will be offered by our vendors,�?� Kletecka said. �??We will have the battery of tests done by the hospital�??s lab, as well as clinical breast exams, bone density exams, and the Seward County Health Department will be offering flu shots again this year.�?�
If anyone would like to have a booth at the fair, they can contact me up until September 30,�?� Kletecka said.
Kletecka said although sponsors and vendors are important to the success of the event, participants are also vital.
�??Health is our �??everything�??,�?� Kletecka said. �??No matter what your age, 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. 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.�?�
Kletecka was grateful for those who have already stepped up to help.
�??Our sponsors and volunteers are invaluable to us,�?� she said. �??If you have already made the commitment to help again with this annual event �?? thank you. If you haven�??t yet, give me a call! We would love to have you on board.�?�
This year�??s Fall Into Health Fair is planned for October 6 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] .
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