On Saturday, October 4th, 2025, the J&C Recreation Centre in collaboration with the Diego Martin West Lions Club hosted a day filled with wellness, connection, and inspiration at the Petit Valley Community Centre. The Health & Wellness Fair brought together health professionals, community members, and volunteers, all united by one goal: supporting healthier minds and bodies within our community.
The morning began with a safety briefing by Rachael Harry and a warm welcome from Lion Theresa Neblett Skinner. J&C board member, Martin Lewis then led a heartfelt prayer that set the tone for the day. One of gratitude, compassion, and service.
As the activities unfolded, Lion Turkessa Blades guided the day’s programme, which featured a blend of health screenings, wellness sessions, and educational talks designed to empower and inform.
Morning Activities
The event opened with registration for screenings, where participants took advantage of free dental, vision, cholesterol checks, etc offered by the Northwest Regional Health Authority (NWRHA) as well as other free tests, screenings and services from the Diego Martin West Lions Club, etc. It was wonderful to see community members engaging with health professionals, asking questions, and taking proactive steps toward better wellness.
Thoughtful Conversations & Mindful Moments
By mid-morning, guests gathered for the first panel discussion, “Mental Health and You.” The conversation touched on emotional wellness, coping strategies, and the importance of checking in with ourselves and others.
The Pharmaceutical Association of Trinidad & Tobago then took the stage, offering insights into the government’s CDAP program, how to access it and how it works for seniors.
Following this, the crowd participated in a calming Tai Chi session which demonstrated breathing techniques, and gentle, flowing movements that left everyone feeling relaxed and centered.
The focus on mental health continued with a short presentation on Mental Health Hotline Services, ensuring that everyone knew where to turn for help and support.
Afternoon Highlights
The second panel discussion, “Safeguarding Our Older Adults,” sparked meaningful dialogue around legal issues which increase in importance as you age as well as caregiving, safety, and dignity in aging.
To close the day, the Red Cross Society of Trinidad & Tobago demonstrated First Aid techniques and disaster preparedness, giving attendees practical tools to use in everyday life and emergencies alike.
Here’s a review from one of the partners of the Fair – Lion June Marcano
2025 saw our annual Health and Wellness fair providing a mix of information, health services and advocacy. Patrons were afforded the opportunity to access a variety of health and wellness services such as blood glucose and pressure testing, cholesterol , HIV testing , vision and dental screening. This year, the spotlight was on Mental Health at the individual level with a special focus on males in the society. Other activities included – information on safeguarding our older adults and responding to medical emergencies and natural disasters. The Community Police kept watch on the activities making sure that everyone was safe. Feedback from the attendees was good . All in all it was a ‘Total health and wellness experience‘.
A Day to Remember
The Health & Wellness Fair 2025 was more than just an event – it was a reminder of how powerful community collaboration can be. From screenings and discussions to movement and mindfulness, it was a full day dedicated to living well, supporting one another, and nurturing both body and mind.
Browse the photo gallery to relive some of the highlights and joyful moments from the day.
Also, here’s a recap video we posted on Instagram that features a walkthrough at the Community Centre during the event.
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