On Saturday, October 17, HRDI’s community mental health center at 114th Street in Roseland opened its doors to over 250 clients, community members, and local service providers and agencies for a health and resource fair entitled “Fall for a Healthy Lifestyle”. In celebration of National Health Education Week, World Mental Health Day, and Dental Hygiene Month, the event provided critical information on health and wellness to those who need it most.

Throughout the day, attendees had the opportunity to speak to HRDI staff and partnering agencies at informational booths, where they received brochures and educational materials about preventing chronic diseases and accessing available services. Attendees also were able to take home free health-related grab bags, filled with donated items, including dental hygiene kits, condoms, and fire safety activities for kids. A representative from the John Hancock Center Aveda store was on hand to give everyone a chance to de-stress with free massages and aromatherapy.

Meanwhile, the Chicago Department of Public Health offered lead screenings for young children, and the Christian Community Health Center’s mobile van provided blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose screenings. Other partner agencies included Roseland Community Development Corporation, Healthcare Consortium of Illinois, and Advocate Trinity Hospital.

A panel discussion kicked off in the afternoon, featuring leading local health experts and moderated by Salim Al-Nuriddin of the Healthcare Consortium of Illinois. Topics included addressing the stigma of mental illness in the African-American community; understanding diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic illness; disease-related vision problems; self-care; and healthier eating habits.

“This event brought expert health advice and free screenings right to the heart of the Roseland community, and provided a fun and informative day for the whole family,” said Mrs. Ollie M. Knight, Interim CEO.