Categories: Articles,
The Greater New York Chapter and the Metro-Manhattan Chapter of The Links, Incorporated hosted a transformative Black Family Wellness Expo on Saturday, March 21, 2026, bringing together hundreds of residents, partners, and health advocates for a day centered on empowerment, education, and community care. Held at the state-of-the-art Dr. Calvin O. Butts III Educational & Cultural Center at Abyssinian Baptist Church, the free event welcomed more than 300 participants and over 30 community partners—each committed to advancing health and wellness across generations.
From the moment doors opened, the Expo embodied the spirit of access and early intervention. The Mount Sinai Mammography Mobile Unit provided lifesaving breast cancer screenings, ensuring that women received essential preventive care without barriers. Additional on-site health services—including colorectal eligibility screenings, STI testing, blood pressure monitoring, and other vital assessments—offered attendees a comprehensive snapshot of their health in one convenient location. The goal was simple yet profound: to meet people where they are and equip them with the tools to take charge of their wellbeing.
Nourishment was also a central theme of the day. Families enjoyed a delicious, thoughtfully prepared lunch that encouraged meaningful conversations about health, nutrition, and lifestyle choices. Beyond education and screenings, the Expo delivered tangible support to address everyday needs. Through a partnership with Food Bank For New York City, families received healthy pantry staples to take home, while the Links Baby Bank provided essential diapers to parents and caregivers. Door prizes, raffles, and giveaways added excitement throughout the day, all set to the joyful soundtrack curated by the event’s DJ. From the Electric Slide to a full Soul Train line, the energy in the room reflected the vibrancy and resilience of Harlem.
The Expo also ensured that every member of the family felt included. The Kiddie Corner offered a warm, engaging space for children to learn, play, and explore, while adults enjoyed a calming meditation session designed to provide a moment of stillness amid the day’s activities.
One of the most impactful moments came during the panel discussion, “State of Harlem: Black Family Wellness.” Featuring board-certified physicians and healthcare experts, the conversation addressed both the challenges and opportunities shaping health outcomes in the community. The panelists offered honest, solutions-oriented insights that resonated deeply with attendees and reinforced the importance of collective action.
The 2026 Black Family Wellness Expo was more than an event—it was a testament to what is possible when service, partnership, and community converge with purpose. The Greater New York and Metro-Manhattan Chapters of The Links, Incorporated created a space where Harlem families could access care, gather resources, and celebrate wellness together.
To learn more about the Greater New York Chapter’s ongoing work, visit their website: https://greaternewyorklinksinc.org/. Information about the Metro-Manhattan Chapter of The Links, Incorporated can also be found on their official website.
