More than 300 people gathered at Ascension All Saints Family Health Center for the fourth annual Wellness Wonderland, a free community event focused on making behavioral and mental health support accessible, positive and engaging for the whole family.
Hosted by Ascension Wisconsin, Wellness Wonderland brought families from across Milwaukee together for an afternoon of connection, wellness education, and activities designed to promote physical and emotional well-being.
“Taking care of our behavioral and mental health is an important part of taking care of our overall health,” said Dr. Sabrina Ali, family medicine physician. “Wellness Wonderland creates an opportunity for families to come together, connect with one another and learn that asking for support is a strength. When we create spaces where people feel comfortable talking about how they’re doing, we build a healthier, more connected community.”
Creating a positive approach to behavioral and mental health
The event combined carnival-style activities with opportunities for families to learn practical strategies for managing stress and supporting emotional wellness. Children and adults participated in yoga, meditation, art therapy, animal therapy, breathing exercises, and CPR training, while also enjoying face painting, henna, snacks, and a dunk tank.
Families also had access to behavioral and mental health resources and wellness education, as well as fresh produce and a backpack and school-supply giveaway to help local students prepare for the new school year.
“Wellness can look different for every person and every family, but having the tools and support to navigate life’s challenges can make a meaningful difference,” said Jenny Ovide, RN. “Wellness Wonderland brings those tools into a fun and welcoming environment where families can learn, connect and practice healthy ways to manage stress together.”
The event's attendance grew from more than 200 people last year to more than 300 this year, reflecting continued community interest in accessible behavioral and mental health resources and family-focused wellness opportunities.
Building healthier communities together
Wellness Wonderland is part of Ascension Wisconsin’s commitment to supporting the health and well-being of the communities it serves. By bringing health education and resources into a welcoming community setting, the event helps families build skills they can use long after the event ends.
For families, the message is simple: taking care of your behavioral and mental health matters, support is available, and no one has to navigate life’s challenges alone.
Through events such as Wellness Wonderland, Ascension Wisconsin continues to create opportunities for neighbors to connect, learn and build resilience together.
