Wagener–Salley High School successfully hosted its First Annual Health and Wellness Fair with a Blood Drive on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The event was planned and coordinated by Leah Shackleford, Art Teacher and Leader in Me Site Coordinator, with the blood drive sponsored by Sgt. Mervin Watford, JRTOC Instructor.
The fair brought together students, faculty, families, and community members for a comprehensive day focused on physical health, mental wellness, prevention, and access to essential resources. A wide range of businesses, agencies, and nonprofit organizations participated, offering education, screenings, and support services.
Participating organizations included Professional Case Management, SRS–DEEOIC / Savannah River Resource Center, Locked In Youth Development Center, South Carolina Department of Health, WIC, Helping Hearts Ministries, Hope Counseling, SC Thrive, NAMI South Carolina (National Alliance on Mental Illness), ACTS, Unique Impressions, The Family YMCA of Aiken, MUSC, Rural Health Services, Inc., the U.S. Army Recruiting Office, and OWCP/DEEOIC – U.S. Department of Labor.
On-site health services available to attendees included A1C testing, blood pressure screenings, hemoglobin checks, optometry services, free flu shots, and the distribution of dental care kits. Preventive health information, mental health resources, youth development activities, nutrition education, fitness opportunities, and community assistance programs were also provided throughout the day.
The blood drive held during the fair allowed students, staff, and community members to give back in a meaningful way by donating blood, reinforcing the school’s commitment to leadership, service, and community responsibility.
The Wagener–Salley High School First Annual Health and Wellness Fair demonstrated the strength of community collaboration and a shared commitment to improving access to health and wellness resources. Organizers expressed enthusiasm for making the fair an annual event that continues to support the overall well-being of students and the surrounding community.