Community Fall Fest: Celebrating Health, Fun, and Early Screenings

On September 13, Community Advocates of Northern Indiana (CANI) had the pleasure of participating in State Representative Vernon G. Smith's 5th Annual Community Fall Fest, an event that brought together families, local leaders, and community organizations.

This year's Fall Fest was held at the Glen Theater in Gary, Indiana and hosted by community leaders: State Representative Dr. Vernon G. Smith, Lake County Assessor LaTonya Spearman, Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr., and 6th District Gary Common Councilperson Dwight Williams.

Their commitment to uplifting the community was reflected by them providing fun and resources for all ages, with free entertainment, haircuts, food, bouncy houses, back-to-school supplies and giveaways!

This year marked CANI’s fourth time participating. We were proud to contribute by offering free BMI checks and behavioral health screenings for community members. Research from the National Alliance on Mental Illness shows "Approximately 50% of lifetime mental health conditions begin by age 14 and 75% begin by age 24. At the same time, the average delay between when symptoms first appear and intervention is approximately 11 years. Mental health screenings allow for early identification and intervention and help bridge the gap." The screenings and BMI checks we provide are more important than just providing numbers. They’re a starting point for early detection and a vehicle for important conversations about physical and mental well-being. For many, screening leads to awareness of potential health concerns like depression, anxiety, diabetes, chronic diseases, and heart attacks. Ensuring everyone has access to this information is at the center of our mission, and community-based events like the Fall Fest allows us to meet people where they are.

We’d like to thank the community leaders that hosted this year’s fall fest and all of our fellow community partners who continue to show up, support, and prioritize health for everyone.

Events like the Community Fall Fest showcased what’s possible when local leaders, health organizations, and families come together, we move one step closer to healthier, and stronger communities.

Because together, we’re better.