Bringing health where it matters: Inside Washoe County's Family Health Festivals

What happens when health care comes to the places where people already live, work and gather?

That's the question at the heart of the latest episode of Cancer Talks, Nevada Cancer Coalition's public health podcast.

In this episode, host Kristen Hackbarth sits down with Itzayana Montoya, community health educator at Northern Nevada Public Health, and Yolanda Rangel, marketing and public relations coordinator at Community Health Alliance, to discuss Washoe County's Family Health Festivals and how they are helping connect families with preventive care and community resources.

Since 2015, Family Health Festivals have brought together health care providers, nonprofit organizations and community partners to offer free services in trusted neighborhood locations such as schools and community centers. The goal is simple: remove barriers that often prevent people from getting the care they need before health concerns become more serious.

The conversation explores why location matters when it comes to preventive care. For many families, challenges such as transportation, work schedules, child care, language barriers and unfamiliarity with the health care system can make accessing routine services difficult. By bringing services directly into neighborhoods during evenings and weekends, the festivals make it easier for people to connect with care in a welcoming environment.

The discussion also highlights an important reminder: health extends far beyond a doctor's office.

In addition to screenings and vaccinations, Family Health Festivals connect attendees with food assistance, legal resources, mental health services, utility assistance, insurance enrollment, educational programs and other supports that influence overall health and well-being. Addressing these social determinants of health helps families overcome challenges that can ultimately affect cancer prevention, early detection and long-term health outcomes.

Throughout the episode, Itzayana and Yolanda share stories of community members who discovered new health concerns through screenings, gained confidence by receiving services in their preferred language and learned about resources they never knew existed. They also discuss how attendee feedback shapes each festival, ensuring future events continue to meet the community's evolving needs.

For Nevada Cancer Coalition, these festivals represent the power of collaboration. Cancer prevention and early detection don't happen in isolation. They depend on trusted partnerships, community engagement and meeting people where they are.

Listen to the latest episode of Cancer Talks on our Substack, or wherever you get your podcasts.