Susana Lopez and her husband Agustin Escalera make a conscious effort to participate in GO WAUKEGAN walks for the health benefits and to instill the value of exercise in their son, Ismael Escalera. They believe it’s crucial to strike a balance between indoor and outdoor activities and to encourage their child to engage in physical pursuits beyond electronic devices.
Agustin Escalera highlights another motivation for their family’s participation: teaching their son the significance of exercise and promoting a healthy lifestyle. The walks provide an opportunity to bond as a family while enjoying the outdoors.
The Escalera family joined a group of Waukegan residents at Hinkston Park for the first of five GO WAUKEGAN walks this year. These walks are part of the Park District’s initiative to foster healthy lifestyles within the community.
Quin Garbett, a Park District recreation specialist overseeing the program, announced that four more walks will be held every two months, ending on December 7th. Garbett emphasizes that daily 30-minute walks are an accessible way for people to establish an exercise routine, connect with nature, and make use of the city’s numerous parks with designated walking paths.
‘We aim to enhance the well-being of our community,’ Garbett said. ‘Regular exercise promotes overall health and combats mental decline associated with aging. We’re committed to providing these opportunities to our residents.’
Michelle Mitchell, the first participant to start the walk on Saturday, shared her positive experience. She appreciates the sense of accomplishment she feels after completing the walk, and the outdoor setting through the park adds to its enjoyment.
‘It leaves me feeling great,’ Mitchell said. ‘The scenery is a bonus.’
Each participant receives a complimentary T-shirt with the words ‘Go Waukegan’ printed on the front. Dog owners also receive sweaters for their furry companions. Isabella Gonzalez proudly displayed the sweater she received for her stuffed puppy.
‘It’s like playing outside,’ Isabella said. ‘My mom and dad brought me here to have fun.’
Gustavo Gonzalez, Isabella’s father, acknowledged the challenges of finding time for family activities amidst busy schedules. ‘This is a great way for us to spend quality time together.’
The GO WAUKEGAN walks have been a community staple since 2017. In addition to the T-shirts, participants are entered into a raffle for a chance to win a goodie bag and a three-month membership to the Park District’s Field House Sports, Fitness and Aquatics Center. Water and snacks are provided during the walks.
Each walk features a unique theme. The Summer Walk on June 22nd at Hinkston Park will offer sunglasses and beach balls, including bandanas for dogs. The Glow Walk on August 14th at Bevier Park requires pre-registration to ensure adequate supplies. Garbett describes it as a captivating sight to witness people walking around with glow sticks at night.
The Zombie Walk on October 19th at Hinkston Park embraces a Halloween theme with holiday décor. The Winter Wonder Walk on December 7th takes place before the city’s annual Christmas tree lighting festivities.
‘We incorporate a winter theme into that walk and distribute hot chocolate,’ Garbett said. ‘It’s a wonderful way to gather as a community and celebrate the season.’
