In a remarkable effort to promote community health and wellness, the White County Health Department and Monticello Parks & Recreation have teamed up to introduce Walking Wednesdays at Altherr Nature Park this summer. This exciting program invites residents of all ages to join weekly morning walks in Monticello’s expansive walking park, with the goal of making our community a healthier and happier place.
Each week, a different featured walker joins in on the fun with others who are eager to start their day with a breath of fresh air and some physical activity. Twice this summer, I have had the privilege of being a featured walker. It's a wonderful complement to the Community Foundation’s current focus of improving and uplifting our county's mental wellness. Dozens of research cases tell us that being in nature can produce significant improvements to mental health and more. Plus, Walking Wednesdays are a fantastic way for our community to come together, enjoy nature, and promote healthier lifestyles!
The program is designed to draw in retirees, working parents, and essentially anyone who needs a bit of motivation to get out and move. Recognizing that exercise often requires self-motivation, the Health Department aims to provide support and accountability to those who might need that extra push. The socialization and mental health benefits of walking in a group are also significant, contributing to overall well-being. So far this summer, walkers have clocked 547 of miles in the park!
Participants not only enjoy the physical benefits of walking but also have the chance to learn about native plants from the Parks Director, Mitch Billue, adding an educational element to their exercise routine. I was delighted to finally learn the names of some of my favorite native plants, like the catalpa tree!
The Health Department has leveraged funding from the State’s new Health First Indiana (HFI) initiative to focus on prevention, education, and promoting lifestyle changes to improve health in White County. HFI funding has enabled the Health Department to expand existing community partnerships and form new ones, developing innovative programs like Walking Wednesdays to drive positive change in public health.
We invite everyone to join us on Walking Wednesdays, embrace the beauty of our natural surroundings, and walk together towards a healthier future. Together, we can make a significant impact on our community’s health and well-being, one step at a time.
For more information about Walking Wednesdays and other health initiatives, please contact the White County Health Department. Let’s make White County a healthier place to live, work, and thrive!
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