Legacy of Wellness: A Community Event Rooted in Culture, Health, and Healing

On June 14, EatWell Exchange and Feeding the Root Nutrition are coming together to host the Legacy of Wellness, a free community event that shines a light on important issues like health equity, food access, and culturally responsive care in Memphis. 

Held on land that has been in the same family since 1946, this event will include a cultural food demonstration, a Black dietitian panel, a yoga session, and local wellness vendors offering services and resources. It’s a space for learning, healing, and connecting and it’s open to everyone. 

Legacy of Wellness is led by Registered Dietitians and proud Memphis natives: Jasmine Westbrooks-Figaro, MS, RDN, CDCES of EatWell Exchange and Samaria Garrett, MS, RDN of Feeding the Root Nutrition. Together, they’ve created an event that uses culture and community as tools for better health. 

For years, people in Memphis and beyond have been talking about food insecurity — when a person or family doesn’t have enough food to eat. But now, dietitians and health leaders are also talking about nutrition security, which means having access to enough healthy, nourishing food to live a long, well life. 

In Memphis, many neighborhoods face challenges when it comes to nutrition security and culturally respectful healthcare. Some people don’t see providers who understand their food traditions. Others don’t have stores nearby that sell fresh or familiar ingredients. That’s where Legacy of Wellness comes in. 

A person wearing a headset prepares a salad at an outdoor market stall, showcasing the Legacy of Wellness through fresh vegetables and products displayed on the table under a canopy.

This event helps fill the gaps in access. It introduces people to local dietitians, community health programs, and free produce and food samples — all rooted in culture and wellness. 

The Black dietitian panel will lead conversations on how cultural foods can help prevent health issues like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. You’ll leave with new recipes, free resources, and ways to take small steps toward better health, while honoring your roots. 

A group of people practice yoga outdoors on mats, facing a white canopy tent set up on a grassy area surrounded by trees—a serene tribute to the Legacy of Wellness.

We believe health should feel like home, not like a lecture. So come join us for good food, real conversations, and community connection. 

 

Legacy of Wellness 

Saturday, June 14 11am, yoga 10:30 am 

The Hayslett Homestead 

1551 Bridgewater Rd, Cordova TN 38018

Free & open to the public! 

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, neighbor, or health professional this event is for you. Help us spread the word, bring your loved ones, and take part in the movement toward a healthier Memphis.

This blog was written by Samaria Garrett, MS, RDN & Jasmine Westbrooks-Figaro, MS, RDN,CDCES

Jasmine Westbrooks-Figaro, MS, RDN, CDCES of EatWell Exchange and Samaria Garrett, MS, RDN of Feeding the Root Nutrition are Memphis natives and Registered Dietitians seeking to make a difference in our community for better health.

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