On Saturday, February 1, 2025, the UAB Minority Health & Health Equity Research Center’s Young Professionals Board hosted Harlem in the 'Ham, an event supporting the center’s Healthy Happy Kids (HHK) childhood obesity prevention program.
Since 2009, Harlem in the 'Ham has brought together more than 4,000 young professionals, business leaders, and community members, raising over $550,000 to support children's health and wellness.
The high-energy event at The Fennec featured a 1920s-themed evening with dinner, cocktails, a Jack Daniel’s Bootlegger’s Lounge, and live entertainment from Sherri Brown.
"Harlem in the 'Ham 2025 was a major milestone for the MHERC Young Professionals Board. As our first dinner and a show event, it was great to see so many people come together in support of our mission. Guests were even inspired to donate to Healthy Happy Kids on the spot—that kind of generosity shows the real impact of this work," said MHERC YP Board President Marquelon Sigler.
The message of the evening underscored the urgent need to address childhood obesity. "In Alabama, one-third of children are overweight or obese, placing the state among the highest in the nation. Across the U.S., obesity disproportionately affects racial and ethnic minority populations, with cultural influences playing a key role in diet and physical activity," said Mona Fouad, MD, MPH, Director of MHERC. "Through this program, we aim to equip children with the knowledge and skills to lead healthier lives."
With over 200 trained after-school program directors, HHK has reached more than 4,000 students across 24 schools in Birmingham, Selma, and south Alabama. "Without support from our Young Professionals Board, we wouldn’t be able to provide these essential resources," Fouad added.
Sigler also expressed gratitude: "This event wouldn’t have been possible without our sponsors, supporters, and everyone who attended. Thank you for making it a success!"
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Harlem in the 'Ham 2025 was made possible by the generous support of Cameron S. Askew, M.D. Bariatric and General Surgery, Acclinate, Alabama State Representative Kelvin Datcher, 20/20 Optical, Inc., Dr. Dee Neurology Consulting, LLC, Heersink School of Medicine Office of Engagement & Access, UAB Sports & Exercise Medicine, SCA Health, Brownstone Total Family Healthcare, PC, Protective Life, RX Benefits, Royal Cup Coffee & Tea, SouthState Bank, Tamara Wilson/Pack Health, UAB Emergency Department, UAB Office of Engagement & Access, Viva Health, Bespoke Wellness Services, LLC, 5B4ME Business Consulting, Community Tracking Services, and Udara Health, PLLC.