The Red Lake High School buzzed with energy on Friday as the Student Health Fair made its long-awaited return. After a break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the fair aimed to shine a light on mental health and the various resources available to students.
Jon Roberts, the event’s MC and a longtime community member, highlighted the importance of seeking help. “In our community, asking for help can be tough,” he shared. It was heartening, he noted, to see organizations come together to offer support and information.
Lisa Beaulieu, the Red Lake Suicide Prevention Coordinator, explained the fair’s mission: “We want to educate our teens about different resources that can assist them in life.” Many students, like Amya, a 12th grader, were surprised by how many options were available. “I didn’t know about most of this, so it’s exciting to see all these tables out,” she said.
At the fair, students discovered support systems tailored to their needs. Victoria Irons-Graves, a Student Support Professional, emphasized that the event aimed to show students there are caring individuals in their community. External resources like Planned Parenthood also joined, providing valuable information on sexual health. Anna Goldentooth, the Indigenous Initiatives Manager from Planned Parenthood, noted that young people are eager to discuss topics like sex and sexuality. “We make it fun and engaging for them,” she said.
The health fair wasn’t just about immediate health needs; it also opened doors to future career possibilities. Oran Beaulieu, Director of Red Lake Tribal Health, expressed a desire for students to explore careers in healthcare. “We want to inspire our students to consider being doctors, nurses, or pharmacists—jobs that will benefit both them and the Red Lake Nation,” he said.
Another key aspect of this year’s fair was emphasizing mentorship. Irons-Graves highlighted the historical significance of mentoring in tribal community life. “Long ago, we had a strong culture of mentorship. We want to keep that spirit alive, helping our young people grow into confident adults who know they can seek help,” she explained.
This event is part of a broader trend focusing on student wellness. A 2022 survey showed that 50% of high school students felt overwhelmed by anxiety, making events like the Student Health Fair even more crucial. Schools across the country are recognizing the importance of supporting mental health, fostering environments where students can thrive.
Overall, the Red Lake Student Health Fair served as a reminder of the strength that comes from community support and awareness. It connected students with vital resources, opened discussions about health and careers, and reinforced the value of mentorship.
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