WALK IT OFF WITH THE Y BEGINS JUNE 14
The Y continues beloved summer tradition for community health and wellness
Eugene, Ore., May 31, 2023 - The Eugene Family YMCA is thrilled to partner with PeaceHealth, 99.1 The Beat and KMTR 16 News to continue a community-wide tradition of encouraging movement, health and fun in Alton Baker Park every Wednesday throughout the summer: Walk It Off with the Y.
“We can’t wait to kick off this summer’s walking extravaganza,” said Kim Miller, Health & Wellness Director for the Eugene Family YMCA. “Last summer, we had an amazing time each week making connections with walkers, both new to the event and long-time participants. We are looking forward to an even bigger event this year and we are all so excited to welcome back old friends, meet new ones and connect with the community.”
Walk It Off draws participants who come to any one of the 12 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 14 through August 30 with options for guided or independent walks.
To showcase the fun of physical activity, each week will have a theme:
- June 14: Let’s kick it at the LAUNCH PARTY
- June 21: Show your spirit with SPORTS FAN DAY
- June 28: Get funky with DISCO DAY
- July 5: Be colorful with TIE DYE DAY
- July 12: Everyone joins in for FAMILY DAY
- July 19: Dust off your cape for SUPERHERO DAY
- July 26: We can’t keep a lid on CRAZY HAT DAY
- August 2: Show your support with CANCER SURVIVOR DAY
- August 9: Bring your four-legged friend for the DOG DAYS OF SUMMER
- August 16: You may need shades for NEON DAY
- August 23: Remember your sunscreen for BEACH DAY
- August 30: Bling it on for our CLOSING CELEBRATION
In addition to partnering with 99.1 The Beat and KMTR 16 News, 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 offers care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska, and promotes personal and community health. Just like last year, PeaceHealth staff and volunteers from different departments throughout the organization plan to bring educational health & wellness materials to the event—a different department will be featured each week.
“PeaceHealth wouldn’t miss another year of 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 step outside, get their bodies in motion, and enjoy the company of friends. It's the perfect opportunity to embrace the beauty of Eugene summer evenings, stay active, and create lasting memories. Whether you're young or young at heart, you'll find joy in joining us and relishing the camaraderie!”
Other sponsors include Slocum Center for Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, the city of Eugene’s Parks and Open Space department, Eugene Magazine, Bigfoot Beverages and Radar Promotions.
Registered participants will receive Walk It Off t-shirts and have the chance to win raffle prizes each week.
Media inquiries, please contact:
Eugene Family YMCA
Beth Casper
503.302.8776 (mobile)
beth@eugeneymca.org
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 2022, the Eugene Family YMCA awarded $492,451 in financial assistance. The YMCA has been serving the Eugene-area since 1887.
