Doctor of Physical Therapy students from Youngstown State University are offering two free wellness events this June to promote health, physical activity and injury prevention for individuals across their lifespan.

Both events will take place at Southern Park Mall in Boardman and are open to the public.

The Walk With a Doc and Fall Prevention Clinic, scheduled for Thursday, June 5, includes two back-to-back activities focused on older-adult wellness.

Walk With a Doc will take place from 10 to 11 a.m., offering participants the opportunity to engage in light physical activity while learning about health topics from physical therapy professionals. This community walk is open to all ages and fitness levels and is designed to encourage movement in a safe and welcoming environment.

Immediately following the walk, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., attendees are invited to a Fall Screening Clinic and Older Adult Resource Fair, where DPT students will provide free fall risk assessments and offer personalized recommendations to help older adults stay active and safe.

The event will also feature access to local health professionals and aging services, including:

1. Jessica Romeo, Mercy Health Outreach: Nutrition resources for older adults
2. Molly Whiner, PharmD: Medication review and consultation
3. Mallory Wiand, Direction Home of Eastern Ohio: Evidence-based fall prevention programs such as “Stepping On, Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance” and “Bingocize”
4. Geri Romito, Direction Home of Eastern Ohio: Resources on aging and disabilities

Registration is encouraged but not required. This event is sponsored by Youngstown State University, Southern Park Mall, Direction Home of Eastern Ohio and Mercy Health.

The Kicking for Hope Pediatric Wellness Event will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 17, at the DeBartolo Commons in Southern Park Mall. This free soccer clinic is open to children of all ages who have experienced cancer or blood disorders. Family members and siblings are encouraged to attend.

The event offers a supportive space for movement, play and social connection. The soccer clinic will focus on building strength, coordination and confidence through physical activity. Free movement and balance screenings will also be available to help identify issues such as:

• Muscle weakness
• Coordination or balance concerns
• Early signs of physical limitations

These screenings can help families better understand how their child is moving and whether physical therapy may offer additional support.

The Kicking for Hope event is organized by the YSU DPT program, as part of its commitment to community outreach and pediatric wellness. Kicking for Hope is also in support of the Hope Organization’s effort to host sport-based events that help patients and families affected by childhood cancer or blood disorders, allowing them to learn new skills, gain confidence, find belonging and make new friends.

Register for the event here.

For more information or to register for either event contact Shannon Dudash at 330-941-2407 or sstarr@ysu.edu.