Project Success Report: Health Expo-Creating Awareness and Promoting Well-being October 7-9, 2022

Introduction We are pleased to present the success report of the Health Expo, a remarkable project conducted by Practical Life Development Association (PLDA) in Ambo, Oromia, Ethiopia, on October 7-9, 2022. The Health Expo aimed to create awareness on non-communicable diseases (NCDs), facilitate blood donation, and encourage physical exercise within our community. This report highlights the achievements, impact, and key outcomes of the Health Expo project. Creating Awareness on Non-communicable Diseases One of the primary objectives of the Health Expo was to raise awareness about the prevalence and prevention of non-communicable diseases. Through engaging presentations, informative workshops, and interactive exhibits, we successfully educated community members about NCDs such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. The sessions provided valuable insights on early detection, lifestyle modifications, and self-care practices to manage NCDs effectively. Blood Donation Drive: Saving Lives Together The Health Expo also included a blood donation drive to address the on-going need for blood supply in local hospitals and clinics. We are delighted to report that the community responded with tremendous enthusiasm, and numerous individuals generously donated blood, contributing to saving lives and supporting the healthcare system. The blood donation drive created a sense of unity and solidarity as community members joined hands for this noble cause. The Great Run: I Run for My Health Physical exercise is a key component of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The Health Expo included the Great Run, an event that promoted the importance of regular physical activity for overall well-being. Community members enthusiastically participated in the run, aligning with the event’s slogan, “I Run for My Health.” The Great Run fostered a spirit of unity and inspired individuals to prioritize physical exercise as a means of enhancing their health and vitality. First Head Training The Practical Life Development Association (PLDA) successfully conducted its first Head Training program on October 7 and 8, 2022, in Ambo, Oromia, Ethiopia. The training was specifically designed for community leaders, elementary school teachers, and high school teachers. The program aimed to equip participants with essential leadership and teaching skills, fostering personal and professional growth, and empowering them to create positive change in their communities. Participants: The training attracted an enthusiastic group of 60 participants from diverse backgrounds, including community leaders, elementary school teachers, and high school teachers from various schools in the Ambo Town. The participants demonstrated a strong commitment to their roles and a genuine interest in enhancing their skills and knowledge. Collaboration Our partners and collaborators played a vital role in the success of the Health Expo organized by Practical Life Development Association (PLDA). Their active engagement and support significantly contributed to the achievement of our goals. We extend our sincere gratitude to the following organizations for their collaboration: Mr. Volker and Evangelical Community Church of Zornheim: Red Cross Ambo District: West Shoa Health Bureau: Woliso Blood Bank: Ambo Women and Children Affairs: Ambo Youth and Sport Bureau: Ambo university Referral Hospital: Ambo University: Ambo Town Mayor Office: Ambo town Health Bureau: Ambo General Hospital: West shoa Transport Bureau We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all our partners and collaborators for their commitment, dedication, and shared vision in promoting health and well-being within our community. Together, we have made a significant impact and created lasting awareness about non-communicable diseases, blood donation, and the importance of physical exercise. We look forward to future collaborations as we continue our journey towards a healthier and happier community. Impact and Achievements The Health Expo project yielded significant impact and achieved several milestones: Increased Awareness: Through engaging awareness sessions and interactive exhibits, we successfully educated a large number of community members about the prevention, screening and management of non-communicable diseases. Blood Supply Support: The blood donation drive garnered a substantial response from the community, ensuring a reasonable supply of blood for patients in need. Community Engagement: The Great Run brought community members together and motivated them to prioritize physical exercise and make it their routine activities for their overall well-being. Conclusion The Health Expo project conducted by Practical Life Development Association (PLDA) in Ambo, Ethiopia, on October 7-9, 2022, was a resounding success. Through creating awareness on non-communicable diseases, organizing a blood donation drive, Giving First Head Training, and promoting physical exercise, the project made a significant impact on the health and well-being of our community. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the participants, volunteers, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders who contributed to the success of this remarkable initiative. Moving forward, we remain committed to continuine our efforts to create a healthier community, address health challenges, and empower individuals to lead healthier lives. Together, we can build a future where well-being and access to healthcare are accessible to all.