Nearly 1,000 community members took advantage of the free health screenings and resources that were offered at the 5th Annual DB Cares Health and Wellness Fair held October 7, 2011, at the Civic Center in downtown Silver Spring, Maryland. Sponsored by DB Consulting Group, Inc., the fair is a public health initiative that increases awareness of health issues, such as HIV, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other health concerns, and promotes healthy living, including smoking cessation, exercise, nutrition, and the importance of having regular medical check-ups. This year, DB joined forces this year with Lux Consulting Group, Inc. (Lux) and Mountaintop Marketing Group to host a bigger and better event.

DB CEO Gerald Boyd, Jr. and President Gerald Boyd, Sr. joined Dr. Walter Fagget, a well-known DC-area physician, and Captain Beverly Dandridge of the office of the Surgeon General, to welcome the attendees. Throughout the day, attendees were free to wander the fair and gather health information or take advantage of on-the-spot health screenings. Booths were set up by a variety of organizations that offered information and/or free services on blood pressure, diabetes, dental health, flu shots, back alignment, breast exams, osteoporosis, bone density, chiropractics, and carbon monoxide.

An American Red Cross mobile unit was also on site as part of DB Cares’ 9th blood drive. Twenty-one donors gave the gift of life. The HIV/AIDS mobile unit tested 19 participants, and the Lion’s Club mobile unit tested the hearing and vision of more than 200 people.

Organizations specializing in family assistance also participated in the fair. These included the WIC program, the YMCA, and Priority Partners, who signed up 20 families who were without health insurance and eligible for medical assistance.

“Each year, the health and wellness fair seems to get better and better,” said Boyd, Sr. “The event has grown throughout the years, which is why we had to move it to a larger venue this year. The community has truly embraced this event and looks forward it each year. This year was easily the best one ever.”