Advance planning is already underway for one of Avalon's most popular events.

Each year the Catalina Island Health Fair offers medical services to hundreds of community members. Last year the fair provided diabetes screening, blood tests, health information and more to nearly 350 individuals. "Last year's fair was an indication of how important the health fair can be," said Dawn Sampson, Catalina Island Medical Center's social services director and the health fair's organizer. "It's a great way to improve the health of the community."

By spending a few hours at the fair, which is scheduled for the last Thursday in April in the Casino Ballroom, participants can get a snapshot look at their overall health by taking advantage of an array of free or low-cost screenings. They can also learn how to improve their health at a number of informational booths.

While participants may only spend a few hours at the health fair, organizing it takes the hard work of dozens of volunteers and staff from Catalina Island Medical Center. That work is already underway and health fair organizers are meeting every Tuesday at 3 p.m. at CIMC to begin preparations. "We would welcome any volunteers at the meetings who would like to be a part of the health fair," Sampson said. "We need volunteers for the day of the event as well as for all of the work that needs to be done before then."

Organizers are hoping that this year's fair is as successful and popular as last year's. "Many of the health care providers and vendors from last year have already indicated that they would like to participate this year," Sampson said. "That's a good sign that 2005's health fair will be just as successful."

The Catalina Island Health Fair is scheduled for Thursday, April 28, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information or to volunteer, contact Dawn Sampson at 510-0520.