YMCA’s outreach includes health fair Wednesday

By KATIE SEMINARA

YOUNGSTOWN — Education is a vital part of being able to prevent health problems, say YMCA executives.

For that reason, the Youngstown Central Branch of the YMCA is having a health fair for Y members and community residents starting at 7 a.m. Wednesday at the YMCA, 17 N. Champion St.

“We are trying to reach out to the community and provide one-stop shopping,” said Kenneth Rudge YMCA chief executive officer.

There will be more than 70 health-related vendors at the fair to provide free screenings, presentations, education and other services.

Last year more than 1,000 people benefited from the fair, and Y executives expect a similar crowd this year.

“We invite the community, but it’s also big for our Y members,” said Mike Shaffer, YMCA Central Branch director.

It allows the members to see if they are making progress in their workouts, he said.

The fair shows both Y members and community residents how taking care of themselves now can help prevent increasing medical costs, said Rudge and Shaffer.

The fair will run until 2 p.m., and those in attendance can receive flu shots for $10 and pneumonia shots for $30.

During the fair those in attendance will also be included in the YMCA’s 125th birthday celebration.

“We’ve been in the business of health, body, mind and spirit for 125 years,” said Rudge.

“It fits what we’re all about,” said Shaffer of the health fair.

For more information about vendors and specific times for tests and shots visit youngstownymca.org or call (330) 744-8411.