by Linda Baldwin

Health Science students and InnVision, a homelessness intervention organization, are organizing a health and wellness fair to meet the special needs of the homeless population in San Jose and the surrounding areas.  From our needs assessment survey, we have identified that:

• Many of the clients are working, but are underemployed.
• More than 60% percent have children
• More than half have insurance, but most of these did not include eye or dental care
• 60% were abused, and would like to seek help in the form of psychological services and/or self-defense instruction
• The majority are stressed and would like information or services to reduce or manage stress.
• Nearly 2/3 of those who have engaged in substance abuse would like to quit.
• 33% Latino, 29% white, 19% black, 9% Asian, 6% American Indian, 4% other
• Nearly half are disabled
• 64% are female, 35% male
• The number one request is for information on staying well

On December 6, 2012 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, the Health and Wellness Fair will take place at InnVision’s Georgia Travis Center, just 15 minutes from San Jose State University.  In addition to providing a variety of information, such as nutrition counseling, vaccination, and self-defense workshops, it is our intent to provide many health education services at this health fair, including breast-self exams, stress management, testicular exams, and smoking and substance abuse cessation.  At this time, I would like to extend an invitation to you to participate in this important community event.  There are many ways you can get involved:

• suggest and host a vendor booth
• volunteer to staff the event
• offer extra credit to your students to volunteer

Please contact Linda Baldwin at lindabaldwin@gmail.com for more information.

We will need volunteers to staff one of three shifts.

Set up:  9:00 am to 11:00 am
Responsibilities:  set up tables and chairs, banners, decorations, assemble give away bags, assist vendors as they arrive
# Needed:  8-10 volunteers

During the event:  10:30 am to 2:00 pm
Responsibilities:  Reception area, provide information, man the raffle, assist vendors, assist with food preparation and distribution, direct clients, recruit for workshops
# Needed:  8-10 volunteers

After the event:  1:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Responsibilities:  Clean up
# Needed:  8-10 volunteers

Information about InnVision can be found here: http://www.ivsn.org/