Preventative Medicine Workshop Series

Abbotsford Youth Academic and Athletic Foundation aims to provide ongoing support for youth within our communities by holding various annual health educational workshops. The goal of this series is to empower youth to understand the importance of preventative medicine and the long-term implications of chronic disease.

We hope these sessions will provide the tools and understanding of chronic disease prevention and management. The use of community and population-friendly language will empower a deeper understanding of pathophysiology, symptoms, and complications.

At these events, we often discuss and primarily focus on preventative aspects such as lifestyle modification, exercise, and diet. We also outline resources available within the local community. Additionally, we present the latest guidelines and recommendations of disease management from a perspective that resonates with our youth.

In 2021, we hosted a workshop titled “Living with Diabetes: What to Expect,” followed by a session on “Hypertension and Management” in 2022, which earned us the UBC Family Medicine Community Initiative Grant for our efforts. In 2023, we expanded our focus to address adolescent mental health, hosting events aimed at reducing the stigma around depression and providing resources for young people. This year, in 2025, we continue to prioritize health education by introducing new initiatives that tackle pressing health issues and promote well-being within our community.