WALK IT OFF WITH THE Y BEGINS JUNE 22
2022 marks second year in a row the Y continues decade-long tradition for health & wellness started by Mix 94.5
Eugene, Ore., June 14, 2022 - The Eugene Family YMCA is thrilled to once again partner with Mix 94.5 to continue a decade-long tradition of encouraging movement, health and fun in Alton Baker Park every Wednesday throughout the summer: Walk It Off with the Morning Mix is now Walk It Off with the Y.
“We can’t wait to get this summer walking party started,” said Kim Miller, Health & Wellness Director for the Eugene Family YMCA. “We had so much fun meeting new people and welcoming long-time participants last summer. We expect a larger turnout this year, but the same energy, excitement and community fun!”
Walk It Off draws participants who come to any one of the Wednesday night walks, which start in Alton Baker Park by the shelter. This year, the free event will be from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays from June 22 through August 31, except July 20 due to World Athletics Championships.
In keeping with years past, each week will have a theme:
- June 22: Summer Shine’s So Bright Kick-Off Day (wear neon)
- June 29: Friends & Family Day
- July 6: Tie-Dye Day (a Eugene Classic)
- July 13: Superhero/Cancer Survivor Day
- July 20: Canceled due to World Athletics Championships
- July 27: The Dog Days of Summer
- August 3: Team Spirit Day with Sluggo
- August 10: Holidaze (wear your favorite holiday gear from any time of year)
- August 17: Can’t Keep a Hat on Crazy Hat Day
- August 24: Day at the Beach (Sport your favorite resort- or beach-wear)
- August 31: Closing Celebration (wear your favorite Walk It Off t-shirt from this year or throughout the decades)
“Walk It Off with the Y created healthy routines and new energy around exercise classes that Y instructors demonstrated each week,” said McKenzie River Broadcasting Owner John Tilson. “We are thrilled that the Y, with its dedication to health and wellness, has stepped up to continue to provide the opportunity for exercise and social connections. I’ll be out there each week with my walking shoes on!”
In addition to partnering with McKenzie River Broadcasting, which will provide promotion and other support for the event, Walk It Off with the Y’s Title Sponsor is PeaceHealth, a not-for-profit Catholic health system that offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska, and promotes personal and community health.
“PeaceHealth wouldn’t miss Walk it Off with the Y,” said Susan Blane, PeaceHealth Oregon’s Director of Community Health. “This event is a friendly way for families and individuals of all ages to get outside, get moving and enjoy friends. Our collective experience with COVID has underscored that physical activity and strong social connections are key to our community’s health and well-being.”
Other sponsors include the city of Eugene’s Parks and Open Space department, Eugene Magazine, Slocum Center for Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Bigfoot Beverages and TNT Specialty Printing & Embroidery.
Registered participants will receive Walk It Off t-shirts and have the chance to win raffle prizes each week.
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About the Eugene Family YMCA
The Eugene Family YMCA is one of the region's leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Each year across Lane County, the Y engages more than 18,000 people regardless of age, gender, income or background--to nurture the potential of children, teens and seniors; improve health and well-being; and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. In 2020, the Eugene Family YMCA awarded $413,506 in financial assistance. The YMCA has been serving the Eugene-area since 1887.
Media inquiries, please contact:
Eugene Family YMCA
Beth Casper
541-686-9622
beth@eugeneymca.org
