Kizzy McCray-Sheppard, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, a member of the UF Health Cancer Institute’s Community Advisory Board, uses engagement and education to improve community health outcomes. She began hosting community health fairs in North Central Florida after noticing health care disparities in rural and underserved communities.
“My initial solution was to partner with local churches to bring health information to the community on a smaller scale,” McCray-Sheppard said.
The small-scale efforts grew as McCray-Sheppard started working with more local organizations to tackle major health concerns such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes and cancers like colon, prostate and breast.
In addition to educating people at existing events, she now organizes larger fairs with an overarching goal of building healthier communities where people have the knowledge and resources they need to live well.
McCray-Sheppard hosted two health fairs in January and February promoting blood pressure screenings, diabetes awareness, cancer awareness and connections to local health care services. The Williston Community Health Fair and the Bronston Community Health Fair targeted rural and underserved areas of Alachua and Levy counties, respectively.
McCray-Sheppard believes education is the first step toward preventing serious health complications.
“Beyond screenings, the events sparked conversations,” McCray-Sheppard said, reflecting on how education can stem from community interactions. “That level of engagement is powerful.”
Community health fairs in rural and underserved areas do more than address disparities; they build trust.
“When communities see health care professionals investing time and energy locally, it strengthens relationships and encourages people to become more proactive about their health,” she said.
In rural areas, access to health care can be a barrier.
“Community health begins with access to information,” McCray-Sheppard said. “When we educate people, we empower them — and empowered communities are healthier communities. Health is limitless wellness.”
“Community health begins with access to information.” —Kizzy McCray-Sheppard, DNP, APRN, FNP-C
McCray-Sheppard plans to expand screening services and women’s health education efforts. She also hopes to host chronic disease prevention workshops and youth health initiatives.
Most of all, McCray-Sheppard hopes these events become sustainable community traditions, inspiring local partnerships and expanding preventative health education. She has already seen the impact through positive reactions of community members.
“What stood out most was the sense of unity,” McCray-Sheppard said. “The events were more than health fairs — they became community gatherings centered around wellness, education and support.”
