Introduction to the Program
Residents of Chicago Heights looking to enhance their health while enjoying some exercise now have a new opportunity through the Walk With a Doc initiative. This program will take place every Friday at 11 a.m. until August 22 at the Jones Memorial Community Center located at 220 E. 15th St.
Overview of Walk With a Doc
Originating in Ohio in 2005, Walk With a Doc features a brief health presentation from a medical professional, followed by stretching and a community walk. Justin Davis, the community health improvement coordinator from Franciscan Health, has organized a variety of speakers for the program, including specialists in diabetes, health screenings, and mental health.
Details of the Event
“I’m going to have someone give a presentation for about 15 minutes, and then afterward I’ll lead the walk,” Davis explained. He anticipates that the walk will last around 30 minutes, allowing for varying participant abilities. A designated walking route will guide attendees during the event.
If weather permits, the walk will take place outside on the community center’s sidewalk. “If not, we can use a gymnasium or other rooms where we can walk,” he noted.
Participants should wear comfortable attire, such as shorts, T-shirts, or sweatpants. “We don’t want you wearing anything professional,” Davis joked.
Accessibility and Parking
With ample parking available, the community center’s long history of over 100 years ensures a welcoming environment. Davis will be present at the front entrance with the center’s manager to assist newcomers in finding their way.
Community Engagement and Attendance
Davis is keen to see the success of Walk With a Doc, which was officially adopted by Franciscan Health in Lake County, Indiana, in 2017. “This program happens (already) in Indiana. It’s my first time. I’m excited to see how it goes and I’ll learn with everyone else,” he stated. “We wanted to try it here, wanted to expand.”
However, the initial response has been less than anticipated. Only ten people attended the first session on July 18, led by dietitian Tara Allen, but just one participant took part in the walk. “I would say the walk did not meet my expectations. I thought more people would be present,” Davis remarked.
His main objective is to foster community turnout and engagement, encouraging participants to invite friends and family to future events. “I want them to take something home, invite their families and friends, so it goes farther than just this,” he said.
Building a Sustainable Program
Davis hopes for a blend of familiar and new faces at each session. “I want it to be the same people showing up. If it’s new people showing up, I’m cool with that, but if it’s different people every week, I don’t want that,” he explained. “That means they don’t see the need for this program.”
Local residents may attend for either the presentation or the walk, providing opportunities for social interaction. “I think it will be more social because people know each other and they’ll get to talking,” he added.
Community Center Support
Juana Morales, interim executive director of the community center, sees the program as a natural expansion of their long-standing partnership with Franciscan Health. “The community center has been networking with Franciscan systems for many years,” she noted, highlighting events like Healthy Choices workshops and community meals sponsored by the organization.
“A lot of times we don’t take the initiative, and then when we’re trying to do it, the old people, it’s too late. We’re sick and cannot even walk,” Morales stated. She emphasized the importance of incorporating exercise at a young age to prevent health issues such as diabetes and obesity.
Morales plans to participate in the walks herself, noting the benefits of staying active as one ages. “I’m over 60, and it’s good for us to walk too,” she remarked, explaining the negative effects of prolonged sitting on mobility.
Looking Forward
Despite lower turnout thus far, Morales is committed to building momentum for the program. “We don’t give up – I never give up,” she declared, expressing hopes for greater community engagement.
For those interested in joining, on-site registration begins at 10:45 a.m. on the day of the program. For further information, interested individuals can email Davis at Justin.Davis@FranciscanAlliance.org.
Melinda Moore is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
