YOUNGSTOWN — One of the organizers of Saturday’s second annual Valley Health and Wellness Expo noticed a trend that carried over from last year’s inaugural event.

“What I’ve noticed, both this year and last year, they’re not just coming in and leaving in 10 minutes — they’re staying for a good two hours or more,” said Kim Calvert, vice president of marketing and member services at the Youngstown Warren Regional Chamber. “I think it’s meaningful interactions; they’re stopping to talk to the vendors.”

She estimated more than 1,500 people attended this year’s expo, which again was held at the Covelli Centre in downtown Youngstown.

There were about 60 vendors set up from industries such as health care organizations, fitness facilities, holistic services and retirement community services. In addition, a staged area featured expert speakers on many health-related topics, and various screenings were available, Calvert said.

People were able to get blood pressure, blood sugar and other health screenings, talk to doctors on site about any questions they had, and learn more about their community.

The event was held in partnership with the chamber, Mercy Health, Southwoods Health, Steward Health Care System and One Health Ohio, Calvert said.

“We’re just trying to show the Valley all we have to offer locally and say you can receive local care here, you don’t have to leave,” Calvert said.

Holly Herrholtz, community liaison for Vibra Healthcare, said events like this are important.

“I think it’s imperative in our communities to have events like this,” Herrholtz said. “It helps the public in one spot get educated and ask questions to get answers immediately.”

Diane Coandle of Liberty also thinks these types of events are important because it offers people a chance to learn about the benefits of taking care of their health.

“I think this is great,” said Coandle. “It’s a good opportunity for people to come down and see different vendors, hear about health and health risks.”

Brandi Love, who works with the Western Reserve Orthotics and Prosthetics Centre, Inc, said the environment at these events are better to get people talking.

“Being in a comfortable setting where you’re not intimidated to ask any questions,” Love said. “They’re more apt to ask us in this setting than in an office, so we’re more approachable.”

cramey@tribtoday.com