By Candice Harrison
Special to The Truth
In a bold step toward health equity and community empowerment, the newly founded Empowered Wellness Foundation Inc. is hosting its inaugural “Rise and Thrive” Community Health and Wellness Fair—a transformative event designed to uplift Toledo families with free medical services, educational resources, and fun fitness activities.
Founded by two local African American physicians, Drs. Jaime McBride and Michael Bush-Arnold, the Empowered Wellness Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to bridging healthcare gaps in underserved communities. The mission is clear for this husband-wife team: to empower individuals with the tools and support needed to lead healthier, more informed lives.
The fair will feature 15 African American physicians from the Toledo community, offering free health and sports physicals for children, as well as ENT and cardiac screenings for adults. Additional services include glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure checks, vaccinations, behavioral health support, mobile mammogram Unit (pre-registration is required but the service is free.)
These services are designed to eliminate barriers to care and ensure families are ready for the school year—healthy, informed, and supported.
Beyond health screenings, the “Rise and Thrive” fair is a celebration of community spirit. Families can enjoy: free food and refreshments, book bags filled with school supplies, The Imagination Station will offer STEM activities, Toledo Lucas County Public Library giveaways, A walk-through Inflatable Lung Exhibit, face painting, free dance classes (Zumba & Hip-Hop), yoga sessions.
Dr. Jaime McBride, a board-certified Emergency Medicine physician, and Dr. Michael Bush-Arnold, a board-certified Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation physician, are not only medical experts, they’re parents, faith-driven leaders and passionate advocates for health justice.
“We’re bringing revolutionary care directly to the communities that need it most,” says Dr. Jaime Bush-Arnold. “This isn’t just about medicine—it’s about empowerment, education and building trust.”
Event Details
Date: Saturday, August 9, 2025
Location: Wayman Palmer YMCA, 200 East Bancroft, Toledo, OH 43528
Time: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: Free and open to the public
The “Rise and Thrive” fair is more than an event—it’s a movement. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in Toledo’s healthcare story, one where compassion, equity, and empowerment take center stage.
For more information or to pre-register for mammograms, visit ewfoundation.org