San Bernardino County hosts wellness fair drawing 2,400 residents

More than 2,400 residents gathered in San Bernardino County for the Fall Wellness Extravaganza on Wednesday. The event was hosted by the county’s Behavioral Health Department and the Department of Aging and Adult Services, which includes the Public Guardian office.

Organizers designed the day to bring together children, families, and older adults. The goal was to create a shared space where community members could access resources while enjoying recreational activities.

Attendees participated in a variety of hands-on events throughout the day. The grounds featured a Ferris wheel, a train, carnival games, and bingo. A wellness scavenger hunt and line dancing sessions added to the programming.

Creative outlets included painting and crafts, which allowed participants to engage in slower-paced activities. A costume contest and live music performances by Knyght Ryder kept the crowd engaged across different age groups.

The event also included practical health resources. The San Bernardino County Public Health Department allowed attendees to meet adoptable pets. Residents could also receive Narcan training and learn about available behavioral health services.

Josh Dugas, director of the San Bernardino County Behavioral Health Department, described the gathering as a display of community wellness. “It is people coming together, building relationships, having fun and knowing there are resources and people here to support them,” Dugas said. He noted that seeing residents of all ages connecting in one place demonstrated that wellness involves belonging, not just services.

Free food was provided to all attendees. In addition, the organizers distributed 150 Thanksgiving food bags to local families ahead of the holiday season.