The Carolina Dental Specialty Center is scheduled to be a sponsor and vendor at the Jacksonville-Onslow Sports Commission’s (JOSC) 2022 Fit4U Fitness & Health Expo presented by Clean Eatz on Saturday, Jan. 15 from 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Northside High School located at 365 Commons Drive S.

The Fit4U Fitness and Health Expo, which saw more than 600 attendees at its inaugural event in 2020, provides an atmosphere for people to connect with local businesses, organizations and like-minded individuals who are striving to live healthier. The expo plans to feature raffles, giveaways, a “Fabulous 5K” charity run and more than 35 vendors specializing in health and physical fitness.

“We created this event so people could find out what it means to truly be ‘fit for you,’” said Scott Smith, executive director of JOSC. “Attendees can find tons of resources — everything from healthy eating to martial arts to running shoes and more. The only way to truly take in everything the expo has to offer is to attend it yourself.”

Attendees will be provided a stamp card upon arrival to document their engagement with vendors. Those who visit at least half of the event’s vendors will receive one ticket to enter the raffle, while those who visit every vendor will receive three tickets. The raffles will feature health-conscious prizes, including a running package valued at $65, massage vouchers, Apple AirPods and more.

“We’re so proud to support this event because it gathers so many members of our community to promote good health and overall wellness,” said Dr. Jose Arauz, Jacksonville periodontist and founder of Carolina Dental Specialty Center, a vendor and sponsor of this year’s Fit4U expo. “With the new year upon us, many people have set goals and expectations when it comes to their health, and we want to provide whatever resources and information we can for those interested in improving their oral hygiene.” 

Admission to participate in the Fabulous 5K is $5 with proceeds benefiting JOSC, which plans to use the funds to create new events, as well as foster economic development and quality of life through sports in Jacksonville and Onslow County. 

Those interested in participating in the charity run have until 7:45 a.m. the day of the event to sign up. Runners unable to attend in person can participate virtually by signing up through the JOSC race web site at www.racejosc.com.

Those looking for more information on the Fabulous 5K, prizes or any other information pertaining to the Fit4U Health and Fitness Expo are encouraged to visit www.playjosc.com/fit4u.