HIV/STO Program to Host Grill & Chill Cookout

The Will County Health Department STI/HIV Program is hosting a Grill & Chill Cookout event on Friday, June 12th from 10:00 am – 3:30 pm at the Will County Health Department’s Main Office located at 501 Ella Ave. in Joliet.

This event is open to the entire Will County community and is designed to create a safe and welcoming environment where individuals can receive free confidential HIV testing, education and information and access to health services without barriers. Attendees will learn about available resources through the Will County Health Department and other community partners including the Salvation Army, Guardian Angel Community Services, ViiV Healthcare, Gilead Sciences, Recovery Community Center of Joliet (RCCJ), Joliet Township and the Will County Health Department Substance Use Program.

There is no cost to attend the event and all services, educational materials, food and activities offered during the event are provided at no charge to attendees. A free cookout with a variety of grilled items and sides will also be provided. A DJ will be present to help create a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for attendees. There will also be raffle baskets that are no-cost to enter as well.

“Our goal with this event is to strengthen connections between health department staff, community members, and partner organizations while promoting sexual and overall health awareness,” said Kaprinta Marek, program Manager of the HIV/STI Program at the Will County Health Department. “By bringing together community partners and residents in an inviting setting, we aim to increase awareness of available services, help individuals identify solutions to their health-related needs, and encourage engagement in preventive care. Providing free education, free HIV testing, a complimentary meal, and opportunities for community connection helps foster trust, improve access to care, and support healthier outcomes for all.”