Evanston launches 16-week walking program

Evanston opened its 15th annual We’re Out Walking program on Saturday, April 26, at Evanston Township High School, starting a 16-week run of walks, classes and wellness events. (dailynorthwestern.com) (evanstonroundtable.com) The city’s Health and Human Services Department runs the program, which is open to people who live, work or play in Evanston. The kickoff was held at the Willie May Fieldhouse at Evanston Township High School. (cityofevanston.org) (evanstonnow.com) More than 300 people registered for this year’s launch, according to Evanston RoundTable. The city said 23 community partners and sponsors are involved in the 2026 program. (evanstonroundtable.com) (dailynorthwestern.com) Participants can join walking groups and attend health, nutrition and fitness classes during the 16 weeks. The city describes the program as a fitness initiative for all ages and ability levels. (cityofevanston.org) (patch.com) The program started in 2007 as a 12-week effort focused on women. City materials say it expanded in 2017 to include all ages, genders and ability levels, and now runs for 16 weeks. (cityofevanston.org) (evanstonroundtable.com) Daily Northwestern reported that longtime participants Lucretia and Desiree Bond said they have stayed with WOW since it began. Lucretia Bond said the program pushed her to think more seriously about her health, including high blood pressure. (dailynorthwestern.com) Fifth Ward resident Leslie Robinson told the paper that group activities provide accountability as people age and deal with “aches and pains.” Community Health Specialist Kayla Smith said one walking group kept meeting year-round after an earlier session ended. (dailynorthwestern.com) The Aux Wellness Collective owner Tiffini Holmes said her business hosts many of the group fitness classes promoted through WOW. She said she wants the classes to feel accessible and welcoming, especially for people who have not seen themselves reflected in traditional fitness spaces. (dailynorthwestern.com) Registration is required, and the city says the program includes group walks, classes, T-shirts and other activities through the summer. For Evanston, the kickoff was the start of a city-backed routine meant to keep neighbors walking together well past April. (cityofevanston.org) (evanstonnow.com)