Health Assistant students at Seneca Highlands Career & Technical Center have learned that wellness is not just a state of not being sick. It is actually a holistic idea that wellness is a combination of physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, environmental, vocational, and financial pursuits. When a person is healthy and thriving, all of these elements have come together to promote a good quality of life, resulting in harmony and contentment. By evaluating negative health outcomes, students are encouraged to look closely at the resources available in their communities and determine how possible solutions to these negative health outcomes can be found.  

On Monday, May 20th, the Seneca Highlands CTC Health Assistant students will be at the Shop- n- Save for their annual Healthy Lifestyles Community Wellness Fair.

For the past several years, students have showcased their health skills and knowledge by performing research into community wellness. They begin the unit by locating data on county health statistics websites, such as the CDC and community websites. They also walk or drive through their communities to observe how each of the eight domains of wellness can be met for individuals. After the initial assessment is done, they choose an area of particular interest to them based on the specific identified needs of the community. Students learn that they can help make a difference in health outcomes by increasing community awareness and providing education on prevention. Some choose to perform demonstrations, while others may create posters or pamphlets to provide education. During this event, they also perform blood pressure screenings and BMI calculations. This is a great opportunity for them to interact with the community members and to offer some service to improve the wellness of their communities. 

Students will be at the store on May 20th between 9:00 Am and 2:00 PM, if weather permits. We encourage community members to stop by and visit this event. We are also thankful to Port Allegany Shop- n- Save for their continued support of our school and community.