Staying connected to you: Public Health in the community

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Two of our staff smile at an event.

As your local health department, we are here for you, whether it’s providing free or low-cost health services, sharing life-saving information, or simply showing up to listen and support your community. In these uncertain times, our role is clearer than ever: be a consistent, trusted presence.

Relationships are one of our core values and that’s more than just words. It means we actively build trust and partnerships with people and organizations to improve health outcomes for everyone in our community. That’s why we’re committed to being present, visible, and engaged—not just in times of crisis, but every day, in neighborhoods, and where people gather, celebrate, and support one another.

Our approach: Rooted in collaboration, centered on you

In 2024, we attended over 140 community events, with more than 30 specifically designed to be bilingual. You’ll find us at food pantries, farmers' markets, neighborhood centers, Madison Parks events, health and resource fairs, festivals, and a lot more.

By partnering with other organizations, we’re able to provide a broader support network to the community. We don’t just show up - we listen, learn, and work to build bridges that will last far beyond the event. Wherever we go, we always make sure we remain responsive to the evolving needs of our community.

Here’s what that looks like:

  • We don’t wait for you to come to us—we go to you.
  • We bring free testing, immunizations, and health education right into neighborhoods and community spaces.
  • We speak your language—literally. Our services and materials are available in English and Spanish to provide equal access to information and care. We can provide services and materials in other languages upon request.

We have both services and materials to offer at community events

At community events we provide a wide range of services tailored to support the health and well-being of our community, including things like:

  • Free STI and HIV testing, and access to sexual and reproductive health resources, like condoms and period supplies
  • Immunizations
  • Tick education and supplies to help prevent Lyme disease
  • Health education on topics like disease prevention, issues in our environment, and wellness
  • Connections to community resources

These offerings are shaped by what you tell us you need—and we’re always evolving to meet you where you are. 

Look for us at events!

You’ll find us at your block parties, your health fairs, and your neighborhood gatherings. We’ll be at events big and small—because every connection counts. Together, we can build a stronger, healthier community—one connection at a time.

Want to learn more or invite us to your next event?

We’re always looking for new opportunities to connect! Contact our Community Engagement Team—we’d love to hear from you. Sadly, we can’t accommodate every request, but we will do our best to attend events when invited! 

 

This content is free for use with credit to Public Health Madison & Dane County .

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