Hospital to host Kids’ Health Fair

Van Wert County Hospital news

Van Wert County Hospital is excited to once again team up with area schools to provide a hands-on day of learning for students at the annual Kids’ Health Fair. More than 450 students in grades 3-5 from Van Wert City Schools and St. Mary’s Elementary School will explore health and safety on the lawn of Van Wert County Hospital this Friday, September 27.

This free outdoor event will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday on the east side of the hospital, 1250 S. Washington St. in Van Wert. Event coordinators Dr. Jennifer Hohman and Dr. Matthew Miller will spend the day with eager students taking part in interactive games and exhibits, enjoying educational displays, and participating in ask-and-learn sessions from health and safety experts who will be on-site promoting positive attitudes for wellness and healthy living.

Among many activities, students will be educated on topics such as: disability awareness; bike safety; Internet safety; engaging in healthy relationships, including becoming an anti-bully partner; nutrition; exercise and movement.

During the event, students will also participate in a no-holds-barred “Fun Run Obstacle Course.” Giddy students will have a chance to complete a 1-mile fun run, as well as compete in sit-ups, push-ups, and hula hoop challenges.

Fun Run schedule — Third grade, 10:45-11:15 a.m.; fourth grade, 10:15-10:45 a.m.; fifth grade, 11:15-11:45 a.m.

“We are so grateful for the opportunity to encourage healthy living in a fun way for students,” said Dr. Hohman. “Just going outside and being a kid helps them to develop and strengthen their bodies — and while they’re out there having fun, they just will learn a few things, too.”

It takes a great deal of support from local and hospital volunteers to make this, and similar events, successful. More than 15 volunteers will be present engaging in fun, adventurous, and educational activities with participating students.

“The volunteers always look forward to the Health Fair,” Dr. Hohman noted. “Each year, we are greeted by smiling students who are so anxious to play and learn. It is such a joy to watch them year after year — I am glad to be a part of that experience.”

Van Wert County Hospital is dedicated to helping improve health and wellness for the entire community. To become a volunteer or learn more about ways that you can help make a difference in an individual’s life, please contact Patient and Community Relations Director Amy Rode, at 419.238.8623. For more information about Van Wert County Hospital or other upcoming events, visit the hospital’s website at www.vanwerthospital.org.