By Alexandria Leatherberry
The Truth Reporter
Amongst alumni returning to Scott High School, the historic landmark was the check point for free wellness screens, community resources and the Black Men’s Wellness 5k finish line.
The African American Male Wellness Agency hosted the 14th Black Men’s Wellness Day in Toledo Saturday, August 15, 2026. In collaboration with the health agencies, Mercy Health, University of Toledo and first response teams, the organizing committee have continued this initiative, “understanding there is alarm sounding for African American Men” said Romulus Durant, EdD, TPS superintendent and committee chair.
Durant shared that, “the best intervention is prevention.”
“It’s an opportunity to be an example to the next generation,” said Co-Chair Robert Langford on the purpose of the public festivities.
The Black Men’s Wellness Day was established by the African American Male Wellness Agency in Columbus, Ohio, 2004. The African American Male Wellness Agency (AAMWA) is the health and wellness arm of the National Center for Urban Solutions (NCUS).
Toledo has become one of 20 cities to contribute to the initiative providing over 10,000 free health screenings annually since 2013. The agency continues to develop the initiative to fight health disparities, expanding the approach to wellness as a holistic issue.
Vendors and resources available addressed not just physical health, but also financial wellness, mental health, and mentorship to ‘support every aspect of the black male experience’ as the mission of AAMWA.
A reflection of the initiative’s mission, Robert Langford chaired the event as the Toledo City Coordinator for the NCUS, while also serving as a committed member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., a performance coach and an American Heart Association Board Member. His leadership across health and community organizations reflects a continued effort to make wellness resources more accessible to the community.
Looking ahead, Langford plans to remain committed to wellness with his family and community partners at the Black Men’s Wellness Day in the upcoming year.
