The Garrett County Health Department’s Second Annual Garrett County Rec Fair brought a full day of free activities, services, and resources to Broadford Lake Park. Community members received more than 400 health, wellness, nutrition, and recreation services, along with 150 farm-fresh food boxes that helped expand access to care, support chronic disease prevention and management, and extend the day’s focus on healthy living beyond the event.
Held on Saturday, June 20th, the Rec Fair also kicked off the Go!+ Passport to Well-Being, a summer-long program that helps people get active, feel their best, manage their health, and connect with local resources. Throughout the summer, participants can enjoy free nutritious food, outdoor recreation, physical activity classes, health and wellness coaching, and other opportunities that make healthy choices easier and more enjoyable.
“The Go!+ Passport to Well-Being is an invitation to take meaningful steps toward a healthier body, a calmer spirit, and more joy,” said Shelley Argabrite, MA, creator of the initiative. “Whether someone is beginning a new wellness journey or building on progress they have already made, this program provides encouragement, activities, and support throughout the summer.”
The Garrett County Health Department extends its sincere appreciation to Oakland Mayor Andrew Sauder, the Oakland Town Council, and the many volunteers and supporters who helped make the Rec Fair and Go!+ Passport to Well-Being activities possible. A special thank you also goes to our community partners from Pathfinders for Autism, AHEC West, the Judy Center Early Learning Hub, Garrett Trails, The Parents’ Place of Maryland, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, Garrett County Community Action, the Senior Health & Fitness Club, and the many other organizations whose time, expertise, resources, and commitment helped make the event even more meaningful.
Additional Go!+ Passport to Well-Being events will be held at Broadford Lake Park on Mondays and Wednesdays throughout the summer. Participants can enjoy free recreation equipment rentals, outdoor activities, and complimentary healthy food from the concession stand.
The initiative also includes four free physical activity classes each week. Offerings include two yoga classes, a Mommy and Me class, and a REFIT class, providing accessible options for a variety of ages, interests, and fitness levels.
Participants may also take advantage of health and wellness coaching designed to help them set achievable goals and turn their ideas into action. Regular check-ins provide encouragement, accountability, and practical guidance, helping participants make small changes that can lead to lasting results.
Outdoor recreation opportunities include:
- Bicycle rides: Explore trails designed for a range of experience levels using bicycles provided through the program.
- Kayaking: Paddle across the lake, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with nature.
- Stand-up paddleboarding: Experience a fun and engaging way to get active on the water.
To participate, community members can create a free account at GoGarrettCountyPlus.com and begin booking activities and classes. Participants can choose from available opportunities, reserve a spot, track their progress, and earn rewards for participating. Prizes may be redeemed through GoGarrettCountyPlus.com, subject to applicable rules and conditions.
The Go!+ Passport to Well-Being is provided by the Garrett County Health Department’s Population Health, Innovation, and Informatics Unit. Activities are sponsored by Healthy Together/AHEC West and CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, with support and collaboration from the Town of Oakland.
For more information, visit GoGarrettCountyPlus.com.
Photo Cutline: Pictured from left are some of the community partners who helped make the free food distribution possible at the Second Annual Garrett County Rec Fair: John Corbin, Lillian Argabrite, Christen Coddington, Shelley Argabrite, Angie Maule, and Fred Polce Jr.
