Hundreds of South Side residents turned out Saturday in Chatham for Block Club Chicago’s inaugural South Side Health and Wellness Fest. The community‑focused event combined a neighborhood fun run, free medical screenings, guided meditation and group workouts, highlighting local organizations working to close health gaps.
Active participation and on‑site care
More than 30 community partners set up tables, providing information and services. Attendees received over 70 on‑site medical tests, including blood‑pressure checks, cardiac ultrasounds, STD and glucose screenings, thanks to collaborations with Northwestern Medicine, Provident Health and Chi‑Care.
Participants also enjoyed a low‑impact barre session led by Hyde Park instructor Mycala Smith and a guided meditation from healer and organizer Pilar Audain, who emphasized the power of community knowledge.
Fitness for all ages
Runners and walkers of all skill levels wound through Chatham’s streets and parks before gathering at the Shine Bright Community Center. Some tackled their first three‑mile run, while others, like Joabe Barbosa—who famously ran every Chicago street—led a walking group through Brown Memorial Park.
Boot‑camp founder Cayra Williams hosted a high‑energy workout for dozens, creating a space for South Side residents to exercise together. “We can make any space a fitness space,” she said.
Local businesses and nonprofits shine
Southside Café and Market Co‑op celebrated its one‑year anniversary, distributing fresh produce and offering gift cards that were raffled to encourage shoppers to support neighborhood stores. The Black Midwifery Collective highlighted maternal‑health disparities, especially as Roseland Community Hospital’s maternity ward remains closed.
Community groups such as Thrive South Side, Inner‑City Muslim Action Network, the Chatham Business Association, the Alzheimer’s Association and Treetop Peer Support Services shared resources, reinforcing the message that health solutions are strongest when built by the people for the people.
Support from major health institutions
The fest was made possible with backing from Rush University Medical Center, UChicago Medicine and the Chicago Vein Institute, underscoring the partnership between large health systems and grassroots efforts.
Block Club Chicago plans more community‑engagement events in 2027, continuing its mission to spotlight local resources and empower residents to lead healthier lives.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
