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By DAVE DOMESCIK | Staff Writer

PELHAM – The Pelham Senior Center hosted its fourth annual Health and Wellness Expo on Thursday, April 3.

The event featured dozens of local vendors, various health screenings and tons of giveaways for the 55-plus community in Pelham. Katie Augsburger, the recreation coordinator for seniors with Pelham Parks and Recreation, gave some key highlights from the event.

“It went great,” Augsburger said. “We had a strong turnout, and the energy throughout the day was fantastic. The room was full of engaging conversations, helpful information and positive connections between attendees and our vendors. Everyone seemed really excited to be there, and we received great feedback.”

While the event offered practical health solutions to attendees, Augsburger emphasized the communal aspect of the event.

“Seeing attendees gathered around a table, laughing, asking questions and truly engaging with the information being shared (were some highlights),” Augsburger said. “It was a reminder that health education doesn’t have to be intimidating. It can be welcoming, interactive and even fun. That energy really captured what we aim for each year: connection, learning and community.”

Augsburger discussed how the quantity and variety of vendors added to the quality of the event.

“This year we had more vendors than ever before, and with a much wider variety,” Augsburger said. “From traditional healthcare providers to wellness services, healthy eating resources and even local businesses promoting healthy living, we were able to offer attendees a more well-rounded experience. It really showcased how much the expo has grown and how committed our community is to supporting healthy aging.”

The feedback, according to Augsburger, was overwhelmingly positive.

“The response from vendors and healthcare providers was overwhelmingly positive,” Augsburger said. “We heard directly from several participants that it was one of the best health expos they’ve attended and that all health fairs should be set up this way. They appreciated the organization, the steady flow of attendees and the opportunity to make meaningful connections.”

The Senior Center benefits from hosting the expo in both the short and long term.

“Hosting the expo strengthens our role as a trusted hub for wellness and connection in the community,” Augsburger said. “Not only does it bring in new visitors who may return for other programs, but it also deepens our partnerships with local providers and businesses. Long term, it helps us grow our network of resources for members and reinforces our commitment to supporting healthy aging year-round.”

Augsburger concluded by expressing her hopes for those who attended the event.

“We hope attendees left feeling empowered and encouraged to take charge of their health—whether that means staying active, asking questions at their next doctor’s visit or exploring resources they didn’t know were available,” Augsburger said. “It’s all about showing that staying well is a journey we can take together, with support and information along the way.”

For more information on the Pelham Senior Center, visit Pelhamalabama.gov/641/Senior-Center.