North Augusta Celebrates Community and Health at Annual HBCU Health Fair
On a sunny Saturday in North Augusta, South Carolina, the air buzzed with excitement and purpose as the Greater Augusta Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Alumni Alliance celebrated its 10th annual health fair and 10k walk. This year’s event highlighted the alliance’s commitment to raising funds to support scholarship opportunities for students aspiring to attend HBCUs. As attendees flocked to the venue, the sense of community spirit was palpable, emphasizing the event’s dual theme of health awareness and educational support.
Fundraising for Futures
The health fair and walk not only promote wellness in the community but also serve as a significant fundraiser. This year stood out as the **main event to generate scholarship funds**, with the alliance reflecting on its due diligence over the past years. To date, they have awarded an impressive $70,000 in scholarships to deserving students, along with contributions to various local organizations such as Paine College, Golden Harvest Food Bank, and the Jessye Norman School of the Arts. The alliance aims to widen its impact even further with this year’s fundraising effort, making community engagement a priority.
Building Community Connections
Raymond McCoy, the president of the alumni alliance, expressed his pride in the growth of the event over the years. “Each year, we get a bigger crowd. We think if we keep this up, people will be engaged in the community more,” he noted. The overarching goal is clear: to foster community involvement and promote wellness while providing vital financial support for students eager to pursue their educational dreams.
A Day of Awareness
Coinciding with the health fair, Saturday also marked the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in nearby Aiken. This event was organized to raise awareness and build support in the ongoing fight against Alzheimer’s disease, especially noting its observation on World Alzheimer’s Day. The duality of these events reflects a vibrant community coming together not just for individual health, but also for the collective well-being of families and students.
A Legacy of Excellence
Founded in February 2013, the Greater Augusta HBCU Alumni Alliance has grown impressively, currently representing 22 HBCU alumni chapters. Its continuous efforts exemplify how alumni can positively influence their communities by uplifting the next generation through education and collaboration.
The atmosphere at the health fair was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and hope as the community gathered to support vital causes. Health screenings, fitness activities, and educational resources were available to the attendees, emphasizing the fair’s goal of fostering a healthier, more informed public.
Looking Ahead
As the day wound down, the success of this year’s event was evident. The combination of community service, health awareness, and educational fundraising created a powerful impact. The alliance’s belief in creating a future where education and wellness are prioritized resonated throughout the gathering.
The Greater Augusta HBCU Alumni Alliance invites everyone to join in their mission, supporting the educational journeys of young students while enhancing community health initiatives. As McCoy pointed out, the event is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a stepping stone toward a future where community and education work hand in hand.
As North Augusta continues to grow and thrive, community-led initiatives like the HBCU Health Fair are vital for building connections and uplifting all members of society. Here’s to more years of health, education, and community spirit!
