Dr. Willie Underwood III named honorary chairman of Niagara Falls Inaugural African American Male Wellness Walk

The African American Male Wellness Walk Initiative has announced Roswell Park Cancer Institute's Dr. Willie Underwood is the honorary chairman for the debut African American Male Wellness Walk/Run in Niagara Falls.

The African American Wellness Walk is the largest health initiative for African Americans in the state of Ohio. Gov. John Kasich has proclaimed August 2015 as African American Male Wellness Month. Moving across the nation, the walk initiative will be held in seven cities: Columbus, Toledo and Youngstown, Ohio; Niagara Falls; Detroit; Washington, D.C.; and Silver Springs, Maryland.

On March 21, Niagara Falls Mayor Paul A. Dyster accepted Columbus City Mayor Michael B. Coleman's challenge to support the walk in the Cataract City. The inaugural event will take place July 18.

This year's theme, "Healthy Men Make Healthy Families," is geared toward improving health and wellness within the urban community by providing educational resources that will empower men and their families.

The event will be held at Niagara Arts & Cultural Center (1201 Pine Ave.), and more than 4,000 participants are expected. The event includes free screenings and educational opportunities while providing empowerment for the entire family. Men will be encouraged to take charge of their health by bringing their family together in unity for the cause of good health, well being, awareness and prevention.

The kid's area is a highlight of the walk activities along with more than 25 vendors on the pavilion to distribute information to the community.

The walk/run schedule includes:

•Free health screenings at 7 a.m. for men, women and children

•The adult 5K walk/run begins at 9 a.m., with the kid's walk at 11 a.m.

Participants can look forward to free historical site give-a-ways from Niagara Falls national heritage area, and Gospel Festival 2015, which immediately follows.

For more information, call the office of AAMWW at 716-990-7462 or visit aawalk.org.