Rockford Sun

Rockford Ready, a health literacy initiative led by the City of Rockford’s Health and Human Services Department, is gearing up to host the third annual SouthsideScene art and health fair on Saturday, April 20th. In collaboration with the Rockford Area Arts Council, the event aims to celebrate the cultural richness of the city and encourage residents to actively engage in their health journeys.

“Our third annual SouthsideScene is an exciting event you don’t want to miss out on,” expressed Tiana McCall, Rockford Ready Community Outreach Coordinator and emcee for the upcoming event. “Come join us on Saturday to eat, dance, appreciate art, celebrate community and leave feeling empowered about your health!”

The event, scheduled to take place from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Guysie Jenkins Community Resource Center in Rockford, will feature music, food, talented artists including poets and painters, kids’ bike giveaways, prizes, health resources, and more. All Rockford residents are encouraged to attend and partake in the festivities.

Rockford Ready, in partnership with local artists and health systems, strives to empower individuals to prioritize their health and well-being. To learn more about SouthsideScene and Rockford Ready, individuals can contact the organizers via email at rockfordready@rockfordil.gov, visit rockfordready.org, or connect on Facebook @RockfordReady.

The initiative is a collaboration between the City of Rockford, the University of Illinois Chicago College of Medicine, Office of Health Literacy, UIC College of Medicine Rockford, and CURA Strategies. Supported by the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health/Office of Minority Health of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Rockford Ready is dedicated to promoting health literacy and fostering a healthier community.