Saint Xavier University hosted its second annual Community Wellness and Resource Fair Sept. 24, bringing together community organizations, health care providers, students, faculty, staff and local residents.
The event was held in the Shannon Athletic and Convocation Center and featured a variety of organizations providing information about health, wellness and community resources.
Hosted by the university’s Office of Family and Community Engagement, the fair focused on connecting people with services and information that can be useful to individuals and families throughout the community.
More than 200 faculty, staff, students and community members attended last year’s fair, which featured more than 50 vendors.
This year’s event included health screenings, consultations, evaluations, demonstrations and informational workshops. Representatives from participating organizations were available to answer questions and explain the services they provide.
“This is my first time here and it’s a great opportunity to tell others about our programs,” said Jill Topf, site assistant for Gigi’s Playhouse.
Topf was among several community representatives at the fair.
Also attending were Sophia Shukin, naturalist at Lake Katherine Nature Center; Katie Wagner, marketing manager of the Oak Lawn Park District; and Daniel Lietz, program manager of the Organ/Tissue Donor Program for the Illinois Secretary of State.
Other participating organizations included Gilda’s Club Chicago, Life Goes On, the Illinois Department of Human Services, Hope Center Foundation, OSF HealthCare, Crisis Center for South Suburbia, the Illinois Department on Aging, Roots of Resilience, Community Blood Center and the Evergreen Park Fire Department.
“We hope that you can join us at Saint Xavier University’s Community Wellness and Resource Fair, where wellness, support, and connection come together,” said Manal Kanaan, Ed.D., director of Family and Student Support. “Together, we will discover local resources, enjoy free health services, and take a step toward a healthier, stronger community!”
The fair also gave local organizations, clinics and health care providers an opportunity to meet with residents and share information about their programs and services.
Saint Xavier University is located at 3700 W. 103rd St. in Chicago.
The event is part of Saint Xavier’s Catholic and Mercy tradition of service and reflects the university’s focus on community engagement, student learning and service to others.
