AFSC Hosts Record-Breaking Rural MAN VAN Clinic

Posted in Combines for Cures.

The frigid weather had no impact on the success of the rural MAN VAN in Lacombe. On November 26, 94 men endured the cold to receive a free baseline PSA blood test thanks to the generosity of Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC), who sponsored the clinic.

“The Man Van provides an opportunity to not only offer a quick and simple test to our staff and their family members but to reach out into the community to encourage other business to participate as well,” says Michelle Pierson, Marketing Specialist at AFSC. “We believe that early detection is key and if we can help the men in our community with getting tested – then it is so worth it!”

The clinic had the most successful turnout since the rural MAN VAN’s inception in 2012. This achievement can be attributed to the promotion provided by of the clinic sponsors. In preparation for the clinic, AFSC spoke with local radio stations and newspapers who agreed to do a story on the MAN VAN. Additionally AFSC hung posters in public areas around town and contacted local service groups, and places of employment where the majority of the staff were men.

“We all know men in our lives that are ‘reluctant’ to go to the doctor, “says Pierson. “ Bringing the MAN VAN to the parking lot of our AFSC building offered a professional, safe, quick and efficient means for our gentlemen to obtain a simple blood test without having to go to the doctor. The staff and volunteers were fabulous to work with.   Everyone was friendly, accommodating and knowledgeable. This program is excellent the way it is set up works for men. It was easy for men to access.”

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Mayor Steve Christie, Merle Jacobson- Vice President from AFSC, Shannon Landry- AFSC Movember Captain

 

Thank you for partnering with the PCC – your clinic has the potential to save a life of one or more of your community members.

 

Tips for hosting a successful Man Van Clinic at your location:

  • Be excited – you are doing a great thing!
  • Contact local media for a good news story
  • Use paid advertising (Radio, Newspaper)
  • Hang up posters in public areas
  • Encourage your staff and their families to help promote the event
  • Use social media and company databases to reach your customers
  • Invite Mayor and local government officials
  • Have refreshments and snacks available
  • Contact service groups (Kinsmen, Rotary) Ask for their help in spreading the word
  • Contact local businesses
  • Give yourself lots of time to plan and to create awareness that the Man Van is coming.
  • If the weather doesn’t look like it will cooperate, try to have a waiting area to keep the men out of the cold or rain.
  • Make sure you have some help to put this together.
  • Support from across your organization is key to getting people out.
  • Make it fun and let people know that it’s okay to talk about and support men’s health initiatives.