The Urgency – Baltimore’s Health Crisis
For decades, Baltimore’s Pennsylvania Avenue has faced a devastating intersection of substance abuse, mental health struggles, and preventable diseases.
Substance Abuse: Baltimore ranks among the highest in the nation for opioid addiction, with overdose rates climbing year after year.
Mental Health: Community members report limited access to affordable care and a shortage of culturally competent providers.
Cancer Prevention: Disparities in early detection have worsened survival rates in communities of color.
Breast Cancer Awareness: October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, making the Fair a timely call to action.
HPV Screening: Preventive screenings and education can reduce future cancer risks, yet many remain underserved.
Supportive Services: Families in crisis need coordinated access to counseling, rehabilitation programs, and wraparound support that can address both immediate and long-term needs.
Supportive Housing: Many residents face instability due to housing insecurity linked to health and recovery. Without safe housing, treatment outcomes are diminished, and cycles of illness and poverty continue.
Health & Wellness Resources: Communities along Pennsylvania Avenue lack access to consistent health resources — from nutrition education to ongoing preventive care — creating barriers to long-term wellness.
Comprehensive Healthcare Access
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Onsite screenings for breast cancer, HPV, diabetes, hypertension, and other preventable conditions.
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Mental health resources including counseling, therapy referrals, and substance use interventions.
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Partnerships with local clinics, hospitals, and faith-based health programs to ensure continuity of care beyond the event.
Community Impact & Outcomes:
Why Attend?
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Direct Access to Healthcare Resources: Doctors, clinics, and wellness practitioners available for screenings and guidance.
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Education & Empowerment: Workshops, panels, and forums addressing mental health, cancer prevention, and substance abuse.
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Community Connection: Meet local leaders, faith-based organizations, and social service providers.
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Support & Advocacy: Bring awareness and solutions to Baltimore’s historic health crises.
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Networking & Recognition: Sponsors gain badges, certificates, and national visibility.
THE NATIONAL HEALTH FAIR
Event Details
Date: October 18th, 2025
Location: National Institute of SOL 1620 Pennsylvania Avenue, Baltimore MD 21217
Activities Include
The National Health Fair and Grand Opening will feature free health screenings, mental health and substance abuse counseling, and wellness workshops including Crystal Sound Therapy. Attendees will experience community forums and expert panel discussions, along with Tech, Arts, and Education expos. The day will also celebrate the introduction of the National Institute of SOL, the launch of the National Sound Stage, and the unveiling of SOL Wall Street at The Avenue Market. Guests will be welcomed into the National Health Committee, with opportunities to engage directly through the Community Health Workers Enrollment Office, ensuring that support and access to care continue far beyond this historic event.
Impact Through Your Support
Your registration or donation directly fuels:
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The Launch of a Multi-Institute Knowledge Park
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Expansion of National Health Hub Services
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Training of Community Health Workers in 21217
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Community access to clinics, counseling, and wellness programs
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Educational initiatives on cancer prevention, HPV awareness, and mental health
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Sustained wellness programs along Pennsylvania Avenue
Sponsor & Partner Recognition
Supporting the National Health Fair and National Institute of SOL positions your organization as a leader in national health advocacy
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Digital & physical badges of support
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Recognition in event press releases and marketing campaigns
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VIP access to health, wellness, and business networking events
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Connection to national and local community forums
To Make a Tax Deductible Donation, submit form below
Community Directory & Resources
Attendees of the National Health Fair will gain exclusive access to a comprehensive Community Directory designed to connect people with vital resources. This includes local health and wellness providers, social service and supportive housing contacts, and a wide network of faith-based and civic organizations. The directory also highlights education and arts programming, ensuring that participants remain connected to opportunities for growth, healing, and creativity. Most importantly, this directory provides ongoing access to essential resources long after the event has ended, creating a sustainable hub of support for the community.
Historical Context & Urgency
Baltimore’s Pennsylvania Avenue has long been at the heart of systemic health and social inequities.
Baltimore City has the highest rate of drug overdose deaths in the nation, with approximately 174.1 overdoses per 100,000 residents—a stark indicator of the opioid epidemic ravaging the community
In 2024, fatal overdose deaths in the city declined by about 25% to roughly 700 cases, but neighborhoods like Penn North continue to see alarmingly high numbers—73 fatal overdoses in a single year—highlighting persistent hotspots and need for targeted intervention
Mental health concerns remain prevalent: 28% of Baltimore City students reported symptoms of mental illness, and over 60,000 residents are estimated to struggle with drug or alcohol addiction, showcasing a deep-rooted behavioral health crisis
Mental health concerns remain prevalent: 28% of Baltimore City students reported symptoms of mental illness, and over 60,000 residents are estimated to struggle with drug or alcohol addiction, showcasing a deep-rooted behavioral health crisis
The National Institute of SOL is reversing this trend by creating a sustainable, multi-institute health and wellness hub—right in the heart of the community.
NATIONAL ADVISORY
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