Health and Fitness : Healthy connections highlighted at wellness fair event

Virginia Gay Hospital Physical Therapy staff were on hand to discuss care at the Health Fair

The Benton County Community Health & Wellness Fair provided a comprehensive look at a remarkable number of resources readily available to residents throughout Benton County. The annual event was held for the seventh time on Saturday, October 9, using Vinton-Shellsburg High School as its venue. Over 40 exhibitors were on hand to promote a wide range of health, wellness, and community services to residents.

This year's event was made possible by the generosity of Virginia Gay Hospital, the Virginia Gay Hospital Foundation, and event sponsors including Carson Wealth, Farmers Savings Bank & Trust-Vinton, Horst PT, Linn County Public Health, United Way of East Central Iowa, Vinton Lutheran Home Communities, Vinton Parks and Recreation Department and Vinton-Shellsburg Farm To School.

Participants received punch cards upon entrance to the fair. They received one punch for each stop they made at a booth or exhibit, and the completed punch card served as an entry into a door prize drawing. These names were randomly drawn to receive a prize:

Virginia Gay Hospital Foundation direct, Robin Martin, explains the significance of the health fair. "We know this event has a positive impact. With such an incredible amount of resources available for mind, body, and spirit available throughout our county, none should be overlooked. It is amazing to see so many assembled in one place. We receive so many positive comments from exhibitors and the public. For our exhibitors, it's a chance to network with each other. For the public, it's a tremendous opportunity to see first-hand the many types of services and organizations that benefit our communities."

The Benton County Health and Wellness Fair is typically held in the spring each year. Due to impacts from COVID-19, format and schedules were improvised. Last year's event was held as a drive-thru using Virginia Gay Family Clinics as the pick-up point for resources. This year's fair was held in person but postponed until fall. Organizers have announced the next event will return to spring with a tentative date of April 2023.

To stay informed of future events and dates surrounding the health fair, make sure to follow Virginia Gay Hospital's Facebook page.

For questions or information related to Virginia Gay Hospital Foundation or Virginia Gay Hospital, please reach out to Foundation Director Robin Martin by email at rmartin@vghinc.com or phone at (319) 472-6375.