March may bring the promise of spring, but this year it also delivered a powerful message about colon health to a group that’s often overlooked: farmers. Recognizing the unique challenges in reaching agricultural workers with health services, the Extension office partnered with ARH and the Cancer Coalition to host a one-of-a-kind Health Fair for Farmers—a day rooted in awareness, accessibility, and action.

The event, held at the Extension office and strategically aligned with the spring plant pick-up day, was designed to draw a diverse crowd. And it did. 91 individuals walked through the through a giant inflatable colon with educational guidance and counseling to kick off Colon Cancer Awareness Month.

Inside, participants found a lineup of screenings and resources tailored to their needs:

•  Health Screenings for cholesterol and blood sugar
•  Mental Health Check-ins (with two attendees screened for depression)
•  Hearing Screenings, which led to multiple referrals for further evaluation
•  Derma scan Assessments for sun damage, a critical issue for outdoor workers

The fair wasn’t just about detection—it was about connection. Farmers gained vital information about local health services, and many left with new motivation to schedule follow-ups and take charge of their health. Several even expressed intent to initiate colon cancer screenings, a significant step toward prevention in a community where these conversations are often difficult to start.

This collaborative effort with ARH and the Cancer Coalition sowed more than awareness, it planted seeds of care, courage, and community in a hard-to-reach population.