Visiting different vendors at the inaugural Levine JCC Women’ s Health Fair

By Summer Simpson, Levine JCC Wellness Programs Manager

Each year, May is recognized nationally as Women’ s Health Month— a time to spotlight the importance of women’ s well-being and empower them to take charge of their health at every stage of life. On May 4, the Levine JCC( LJCC) proudly hosted its first-ever Women’ s Health Fair, creating a vibrant and engaging space where women in the Charlotte area could explore the many facets of their physical, emotional, and mental wellness.

Held from 10 a. m. to 1 p. m., the fair transformed the Foundation of Shalom Park into a hub of discovery, learning, and celebration. Led by the Department of Fitness & Wellness, the event was thoughtfully designed to connect women with local healthcare providers, specialists, and businesses offering resources and services tailored to the unique needs of women, from adolescence through post-menopause.

With an emphasis on education, empowerment, and community connection, the fair featured

a wide array of vendors and organizations. Attendees had the opportunity to meet professionals specializing in women’ s health, including pelvic floor therapists, nutrition experts, skincare consultants, life and wellness coaches, and more. Guests could learn about offerings and sample select services, making the experience both informative and interactive.

A highlight of the day was a dynamic lineup of presentations

from medical experts and wellness leaders including,“ Aging Gracefully,”“ Common Cancer Sites in Women,” and“ The Importance of Lifting Heavy,” which addressed the growing conversation around strength training and bone health for women of all ages.

Beyond health-focused content, the fair also featured a curated shopping experience with local artisans and small businesses showcasing artwork, jewelry

, sporting goods, and unique gifts— perfect for those looking to find something special ahead of Mother’ s Day. Attendees also enjoyed a silent auction, with proceeds supporting the LJCC Scholarship Fund, which ensures access to LJCC programs for all members of the community.

“ We wanted this to be more than just a health fair; we wanted it to feel like a celebration,” said the organizers from the Fitness & Wellness Department.“ Our goal was to bring together a wide spectrum of offerings that reflect the many dimensions of women’ s health and wellness, and to do it in a way that felt welcoming, inclusive, and fun.”

The success of this free community event was made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors and donors. The LJCC extends deep gratitude to our presenting sponsors: Novant Health, Action Plus Ideas, Craft Body Scan, Pivotal Weight Loss and Longevity, and Cigna Healthcare. Their partnership was instrumental in making this vision a reality.

We also recognize and thank our in-kind donors, whose contributions helped elevate

the event experience: Allycia Brown, Diamonds Direct, Diana Barnes, Greg O’ Connor, Levine JCC Massage, LJCC Membership, Perry’ s Diamonds & Estate Jewelry, RaeLyn Hamilton, Starr Vitality and Wellness, The Village on Morehead, and Wilson Sporting Goods.

As the inaugural event, the 2025 Women’ s Health Fair was a true celebration of what’ s possible when a community comes together around a shared purpose. With overwhelmingly positive feedback and enthusiastic participation, the LJCC is already looking ahead to the future, with hopes to expand and grow this signature event in the years to come.