Too often we rely on fast, inexpensive and often unhealthy snacks to fuel our activism and meet the demands of protecting workers' rights. AFGE Local 2006 looked to change that by creating an event that would educate their members on wellness and the importance of healthy eating habits. In late September at the Mid Atlantic Social Security Center in Philadelphia, AFGE Local 2006 put a new spin on the typical union fair model.   

Cheryl Brown, the local’s fair practices coordinator, and Johnnie Alston, the local’s women’s coordinator, organized a different type of event. As leaders of the local’s Women’s and Fair Practices Committee, Brown and Alston are focused on preventative health care as part of their committee platform.   

The Health and Wellness Fair brought together local community groups and featured healthy snacks, including fresh fruit, for attendees to enjoy. Exhibitors included a local community health center, , diabetes foundation, the Delaware Valley Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association and the Linda Creed Epstein Foundation, which focuses on breast cancer awareness.   

Reflecting on the local’s first health and wellness fair, local president Beverly Wilmer said, “The turn-out was amazing and we got a lot of positive feedback.”  

The local plans to bring the event back next year as part of an expanded union program that includes a substantial display on health and wellness.   

Local 2006 Health and Wellness Fair Photo Gallery: