"Caring for Our Community" was the theme as 20 local health-related vendors converged at the Wasilla (Alaska) Church on Sunday, March 22, for its inaugural health fair. Everything from the Alaska Medical Lab services blood draws to a free chair massage was available to the public.
Wasilla's health and temperance leader, Bonnie Burnette, coordinated this first-time event, and more than 100 people from the community came through the church doors. Several had never been inside an Adventist church, and one vendor commented after the event was over that she would like to get to know Adventists better. The health fair allowed the church to make known its presence in the community and gave an opportunity to share the health message.
There were two main donation opportunities associated with the fair. The first, the Jackson Project, filled several large bags with stuffed animals to comfort children who are medevaced. Children's pajamas were donated for the Mat-Su Regional Sleep Lab.
The fair also featured four lectures: Depression Prevention and Recovery, Disaster Preparedness for You and Your Family, The Digital Invasion, and Is It Alzheimers.
Several of the vendors commented they really hope that the Wasilla Church has a second health fair sometime next year. And the answer is … yes.
Volunteers help raise funds by selling many types of muffins.
Alaska Medical Lab draws blood to provide health information to fair visitors.
Wayne Love, a local vendor, talks with a fair attendee about healthy water consumption.
