2015 Wellness Fair

The Wellness Fair started the year after the Pow Wow, and it’s now held the Friday of Pow Wow weekends. This is its 22nd year in a row.

150 people estimated to attend – that’s the amount of shirts they buy. And they know it’s growing.

It all starts with a march from subway to the tent, where there are presentations, and then kiosks from various local organizations open up.

“We have a vast amount of resources in our community,” said Sheila Swasson. “And this is their opportunity to  showcase what they do.” 

The fair is hosted by Haven House, which has a mandate that includes creating awareness for family violence prevention.

The keynote speaker is Tuma Young, from Cape Breton University.

“I think he’s focusing on technology, and the impact that it’s having on culture,” said Swasson.

Dominque Loyer, a Naturopath originally from Listuguj will be presenting.  Families First and the Anti-Racism Strategy will also be giving presentations.

Swasson feels the fair is appropriately named – it’s all aimed at “wellness.”

“Every aspect of it,” Swasson said. “And it’s a personal thing … I always think of it [as] a journey.

It’s not a destination, so it’s something that you’re continually working at, and we’re all at different places along that way.”

Swasson hopes people will find something to improve their wellness, in any  way.

“Take what you need, if you don’t need it – leave it behind.”