Tampa Bay 28 Expands Health Programs After Successful Expo
Locales: Florida, UNITED STATES

TAMPA, FL - February 22nd, 2026 - Tampa Bay 28 (TB28) continues to solidify its commitment to the health and wellbeing of the Tampa Bay area, building on the success of its recent participation in the annual Health & Fitness Expo. While the Expo served as a key point of connection, TB28 is now actively expanding its programs and outreach to address evolving community needs and foster lasting healthy habits.
This year's Expo, held last weekend, saw record attendance, with families, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals seeking guidance on their health journeys flocking to the event. TB28 staff were on hand, engaging with attendees of all ages and fitness levels, sharing information about their diverse range of programs and offering personalized encouragement. Beyond simply distributing informational materials, the team focused on building rapport and understanding individual challenges, tailoring advice to specific needs.
"The Expo isn't just about showcasing what we do," explains Dr. Eleanor Vance, Chief Wellness Officer at Tampa Bay 28. "It's about understanding what our community needs. We spent a lot of time listening to concerns, identifying gaps in existing resources, and learning about the barriers people face when trying to adopt healthier lifestyles. This informs how we adapt and expand our offerings."
The Expo itself featured a robust lineup of activities, from high-intensity fitness demonstrations led by local instructors to vital health screenings provided by medical professionals. Nutritional advice was also readily available, with registered dietitians offering personalized meal planning tips and debunking common food myths. TB28's booth wasn't just a static display; it became a hub for interactive health assessments, including quick fitness tests and basic metabolic rate estimations.
Building on the momentum from the Expo, TB28 is launching several new initiatives designed to further enhance community health. These include:
- Mobile Wellness Units: Recognizing that accessibility is a significant barrier for many, TB28 is deploying two fully-equipped mobile wellness units. These vans will travel to underserved neighborhoods, offering free health screenings, vaccinations, and health education workshops. The units are scheduled to begin operating in March, prioritizing areas identified through data collected at the Expo and from community partners.
- Digital Wellness Platform: A new, user-friendly digital platform will provide access to virtual fitness classes, nutritional guidance, and mental wellbeing resources. The platform, accessible via web and mobile app, will offer personalized workout plans, recipe suggestions, and guided meditation sessions. A freemium model ensures basic access is available to all, with premium features unlocked through a subscription.
- Community Garden Program: TB28 is partnering with local schools and community centers to establish a network of community gardens. This initiative will promote healthy eating habits, provide opportunities for physical activity, and foster a sense of community ownership. Gardening workshops and educational programs will be offered to participants of all ages.
- Youth Sports Scholarships: Recognizing the importance of early physical activity, TB28 is expanding its youth sports scholarship program. This program provides financial assistance to families who cannot afford to enroll their children in organized sports, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to participate in physical activity and develop healthy habits.
Dr. Vance emphasizes that TB28's approach extends beyond simply promoting physical health. "Wellness is holistic," she states. "It encompasses physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. We're committed to addressing all aspects of health and providing resources that support the whole person."
The organization's long-term vision is to create a Tampa Bay area where healthy living is accessible and achievable for everyone. By actively engaging with the community, listening to its needs, and providing innovative programs and resources, Tampa Bay 28 is well-positioned to make a lasting positive impact on the health and wellbeing of the region.
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