United Way of Greater Knoxville (UWGK) and The University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC) came together to host the first-ever EastKnoxWell Health and Community Fair.
Held at Vine Middle Magnet, a UWGK Community School, the fair welcomed over 100 neighbors, local organizations, and healthcare professionals for a day focused on wellness, education, and connection. Nearly 50 individuals received free health screenings, many of whom may not have otherwise had access to these essential services. From cholesterol checks and heart screenings to 3D mammograms and cancer screenings, the event offered essential services at no cost, helping to close critical gaps in access to care.
53% of people in Knox County are unable to make ends meet off their income alone. They are forced to make hard choices each day between food, childcare, transportation, healthcare, and more. By providing essential services through events like EastKnoxWell, UWGK is filling in gaps and ensuring people have access to basic needs.
“Access to quality healthcare is essential for building a strong, thriving community,” said Dr. Keith Gray, President and CEO at UTMC. ”We’re proud to work alongside United Way and our community partners to bring these critical health screenings and services directly to the people who need them most.”
Inside the school, UTMC staff ran five dedicated screening rooms. Outside, three mobile health units—including Cherokee Health Systems’ mobile vaccine clinic—provided additional services like COVID and flu shots.
In total, 26 local organizations hosted tables, sharing information and resources on topics ranging from food access and housing support to youth programs and mental health services.
“This event was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when healthcare providers, nonprofits, and neighbors come together with a shared goal—to make our community stronger and healthier,” said Chrystal Armstrong Brown, Interim CEO at UWGK. “We’re grateful to everyone who made EastKnoxWell a success, and we’re already looking forward to what’s next.”
EastKnoxWell wouldn’t have been possible without the support of 48 incredible volunteers who helped everything run smoothly. From greeting guests to supporting event logistics, these volunteers played a vital role in the event’s success. Attendees also enjoyed delicious food from two local food trucks while exploring the variety of community booths and wellness activities available throughout the day.
With a strong turnout and clear community impact, UWGK and UTMC are looking at ways to build on the success of this event. The team is exploring the possibility of bringing EastKnoxWell back in the future, with hopes of making it a recurring opportunity to connect neighbors with vital health and community resources.
EastKnoxWell showed what’s possible when people come together with a shared purpose. We’re excited to keep the momentum going.
Thank you to everyone who participated, volunteered, and showed up for EastKnoxWell. UNITED, we can create a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
