Rockford Ready, a health literacy initiative in Rockford, is once again participating in this year’s Spring ArtScene, a biannual art walk taking place on April 19 and 20. Anqunette Parham, the executive director of the City of Rockford’s Health and Human Services, leads the health initiative and is excited to bring their message to the event. This is the third year that Rockford Ready has been involved in the art walk, showcasing diverse artists and talents to raise awareness about health literacy through art.
During the event, the community will have the opportunity to meet muralists and the newest youth poet laureate, Trinity Rucker. A Rockford Ready mural, designed by local artists from the Fatherless [Print] Posse, is currently in progress and will be unveiled at the event. Trinity will perform a poem written specifically for the occasion, adding a creative touch to the health-focused initiative. In addition, health organizations like Crusader Health will be present, offering information and resources to the attendees.
One of the highlights of the event will be Narcan training, where participants can learn how to administer the drug Naloxone to prevent opiate overdoses. This training is an important aspect of the health department’s efforts to combat opioid overdoses in the community. SouthSideScene will take place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 20 at the Guysie Jenkins Community Resource Center located at 911 Michigan Ave in Rockford. It promises to be an eventful and informative experience for all who attend.