Healthapalooza 2025: A Vision Brought to Life

On July 20, 2025, a powerful vision came to life. What began as a simple idea to bring accessible and engaging health education to families grew into a vibrant celebration of wellness, community, and connection.

Healthapalooza 2025 was not just an event. It was a declaration that health should be joyful, approachable, and available to everyone. Families walked through the doors unsure of what to expect and left feeling seen, supported, and inspired.

With over 150 attendees, families from across the community came together in a space filled with laughter, learning, and life-changing moments. From the very first smile at check-in to the final conversations as doors closed, the energy was undeniable. Healthapalooza was alive, and it was exactly what this community needed.

As the founder and creative lead behind this event, standing in that space was surreal. After months of dreaming, planning, and preparing, I watched something that once lived only in my imagination come to life. The hard work had transformed into something tangible. It was no longer just a vision. It was real.

A Collective Effort

None of this would have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, partners, and volunteers. Their belief in this mission turned a single idea into a full-scale, impactful event.

• Ubatuba Açaí provided refreshing açaí cups that brightened the day of every guest who stopped by

• Robeks Glendale handed out delicious juice samples and exclusive coupons, keeping spirits high and hands full

• LC Imports generously donated a $50 gift card, creating an extra layer of excitement and gratitude among attendees

• A sincere thank you to the YMCA for offering a welcoming space that became the perfect home for this celebration

To the many family members, friends, and volunteers who gave their time, helped run stations, answered questions, and lifted both boxes and spirits, I want to say thank you. You were the heartbeat of this event.

Stories That Stay With Us

There are countless moments from the day that I will carry with me, but one conversation reminded me exactly why this work matters.

A woman, whom I will call “P,” came through our vision screening station. She shared that she had been dealing with a corneal condition for some time but had not yet seen a specialist. One of our nurses offered to examine her and helped refer her to an eye doctor in the area. She was deeply moved. She told me that she had come to Healthapalooza out of curiosity and had not expected to leave with real help.

That single interaction brought the mission of this event full circle. It reminded me that community health is not just about information. It is about action, access, and care that feels personal and reachable.

A Celebration for All Ages

Although Healthapalooza was originally created with children in mind, I was overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response from adults of all ages. Parents, grandparents, and caregivers engaged deeply with the stations, asked thoughtful questions, and expressed genuine appreciation.

What started as a kid-focused event quickly transformed into a full-family experience. It became clear that the need for this kind of community-centered care extends far beyond any one age group.

The Road Ahead

The success of Healthapalooza 2025 is just the beginning. We are already preparing for our next event in Spring 2026, with plans to grow in size, scope, and impact. The feedback from attendees has fueled our creativity and commitment, and we are excited to continue building something meaningful for the community.

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With Gratitude

To every attendee who showed up with curiosity, to every volunteer who gave their heart, and to every sponsor who believed in our vision, thank you. Healthapalooza 2025 was more than an event. It was a spark. And together, we have only just begun.

With heartfelt thanks,

Karis Park, RN, BSN, PHN

Founder & CEO

The Global Roots Foundation