Are you a member of the “Sandwich” generation—those who, at midlife, are charged with the responsibility of caring for children and an elderly parent as well? The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) estimates that 44 percent of adults between the ages of 44 and 55 have at least one living parent and at least one child under the age of 21. Or, perhaps you are a caregiver for an aging spouse or family member (75 percent of all caregivers are women), and you often find that meeting their needs means that your own health and well-being becomes secondary.

To encourage women to take time for themselves, several years ago the Howard County Office on Aging (OoA) introduced WomenFest—an interactive day designed to inspire women to lead more balanced, healthy, and fulfilled lives. Held on a weekday, the free event attracted hundreds of area women to its free seminars and workshops, health screenings, vendors, and exhibitors. But despite its success, WomenFest organizers realized that many working women who would potentially benefit from the event could not attend. This year, WomenFest will take place on Saturday, June 16 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Gary J. Arthur Community Center in Cooksville so all can attend.

One thing that has not changed is the wide array of screenings, workshops, exhibits, and vendors that make WomenFest a one-stop shop for any woman seeking to improve her health, update her look, access up-to-date medical information and free health screenings, or just enjoy a day out with friends. Fittingly, many vendors represent women-owned or home-based businesses, with products ranging from jewelry, make up, and fashion accessories to home décor products and services. Fresh and healthy lunch menu options are available for purchase, so grab some friends and make a day of it.

New this year, WomenFest culminates in a free outdoor jazz concert at 2 p.m. by Howard County’s own Deanna Bogart (bring a lawn chair). Deanna combines the best of boogie-woogie, contemporary blues, country, and jazz into a splendid blend she calls “blusion.” To find out more about this award-winning Howard County musician, visit www.deannabogart.com. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to see her for free!

For more information about WomenFest, including the full schedule of the day’s free activities, call 410-313-5440 or visit www.howardcountyaging.org/womenfest.