Last Thursday, the YMCA was a bustling place as it hosted the annual Senior Health Expo.
Brooke Oliver, CEO of Mexico Area Family YMCA was happy with the overall product, which continues to pick up steam as COVID drifts further into the rear view mirror.

“We were happy with the turnout,” said Oilver of the seventh annual edition.
Apparently, so were the vendors, all of whom indicated they would be interested in participating again in their surveys.

Thirty-eight area vendors lined the gym floor this year, a healthy mix of organizations and businesses. Oliver would like to see that number increase in 2023 and she’d like to have a greater cross section of vendors, including more service providers.

“Our goal for 2024 is to to get a wider variety - and more of them,” Oliver said. “The whole intent is to be a one-stop resource fair.”

Healthcare is important and providers are well represented. The team would like to see an increase in vendors representing all aspects of life, including active living, from gardening to bird watching and other hobbies.

Oliver notes the Y looks to help build a healthy body, mind and spirit.

“I want vendors who fall into these realms as well,” she said.

As for attendance, the Y estimates that at around 275, with all of its 250 giveaway bags distributed. Inside the exhibit hall, conversations were lively and attendees were able to pick up a wide array of promotional items or SWAG (stuff we all get).

“It grows every year,” Oliver said.

And with that said, there’s the potential to grow the Expo, if vendor commitment continues to increase. Space is limited in its current setting, so this year the Y turned away some latecomers interested in exhibiting.

Oliver extended her appreciation to the YMCA staff who helped with set-up, tear-down and general executive of the Expo. She also pointed to the efforts of the Audrain County Health Leadership Team: Kerry Patton, Melissa Stewart, Tad Dobyns, Seth Cooke, Becky Wieberg, Bev Borgeson, Brooke Oliver, Chad Shoemaker and Jenae Smith. Planning typically starts in September or October.

Vendor invitations are sent in January and preparation intensifies as the event approaches. The day before the event, as Oliver puts it, is “all hands on deck.”
“It really takes a village to put it on,” she said.

Guests were able to provide their feedback through surveys, giving a positive assessment of the Expo. There were requests for more gift bags from vendors, so they could carry around all their freebies. At least one vendor obliged this year, which increased their booth traffic considerably.

“Everyone wanted those State Farm bags,” said Oliver with a laugh.

Attendees hailed from Mexico as well as other surrounding communities, which gives the Y an opportunity to show off all they have to offer to those who may not be familiar.

“We know that Mexico is a great place to live for anyone of any age,” said Oliver. “This is just one way to show that.”

With that, organizers will take a breath and begin planning for 2024.