Hospitals in Action >> Case Examples

WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL, Morgantown, West Va
Kids Health Fair

What is it? 
West Virginia University Children's Hospital in Morgantown holds an annual Kids Fair to promote the importance of health, wellness and safety. It's very much a family event, and the only event of its kind and size in the region.  Some interesting figures from the 2007 event included:

• 650 DNA kits distributed
• 450 height, weight and BMI measurements provided
• 400 kids enjoyed "Dance Dance Revolution
• 350 blood pressure screenings conducted
• 325 kids participated in a get-fit obstacle course
• 300 spruce trees handed out
• 250 kids participated in sit-up testing
• 200 color-blindness screenings conducted
• 75 kids participated in flexibility testing and listened to their heart
• 60 developmental screenings provided
• 40 vision screenings conducted

Typically, there are about 40 exhibitors, and each exhibitor is encouraged to provide some type of hands-on activity for the children. Free health screenings and assessments are encouraged. In addition to the exhibitors, there is kid-friendly entertainment and a mini-carnival. In the past, we've held a kids walk, invited the kids to have a healthy breakfast with a character, and provided child seat safety checks.

Who is it for? 
The fair is for children 12 years of age and under and their parents. It is estimated that event attendance in 2007 was close to 14,000.

Why do they do it?
Twenty-eight percent of low-income children between 2 and 5 years of age in West Virginia are overweight or at risk of becoming overweight. Activities offered at the Kids Fair help educate the youngsters and their parents about the importance of being active and living a healthy lifestyle. In addition, tooth decay is the most common infectious disease of among West Virginia's children. By the time of high school graduation, 84 percent of the states' youth have had tooth decay and 33 percent suffer from untreated decay. From puppet shows to brushing/flossing demonstrations, we educate the kids attending the Kids Fair about the importance of good oral health. This annual event allows the hospital to provide a real service to our community.

Contact: Stephanie Bock, MBA, MS
Director, Community Relations
Telephone: 304-598-6335
E-mail:  bocks@wvuh.com