Community engagement the big story behind 2023 Walk to Wellness
peopleCare’s third-annual Walk to Wellness is in the books and the big story for 2023 is the outstanding level of community spirit and participation! From high school students to elected officials, business owners to the local fire department – across our communities, peopleCare’s neighbours came out in force to engage with residents and staff, enjoy the last of the sunny fall weather and get some steps in for a good cause.
Every peopleCare Home hosts a community walk during the 16-day Walk to Wellness event, and each year we are pleased to see more and more of our community partners, neighbours and friends join in the fun. For instance, during peopleCare Meaford Long-Term Care’s (LTC) community walk, 64 residents made their way the short distance from the Home to the lovely waterfront, accompanied by staff, families, volunteers, community members and a few furry friends too.
Quality time with some furry friends
“We had a wonderful time walking down to the harbour as a group, on a beautiful day, exercising, celebrating and supporting a healthy lifestyle with our residents and team members,” says Meaford LTC’s Director of Programs Wendi Cochrane. “A special thank you to our volunteers, family members, local Council members and the Meaford Fire Department for joining us and making this year’s event such a great success!” See Meaford LTC walkers do the wave on Georgian Bay! (Facebook)
Launched in 2021 after our employee wellness survey noted staff wanted more opportunities to focus on wellbeing and connection with others, Walk to Wellness has since evolved into a signature event of peopleCare’s annual Beyond Ourselves fundraising campaign benefiting MEDA.
Offering something for residents, staff, families and partners alike, fundraising activities look a little different in every peopleCare Home and include fun fairs and carnivals, bake sales, 50/50 draws, basket raffles, chocolate sales, t-shirt sales and much more.
Oakcrossing Retirement’s community Fall Fair
Along with each Home’s community walks, the organization also offers a virtual walk for all staff, encouraging physical activity and some friendly competition. This year, our team members walked a route highlighting MEDA’s outstanding impact in supporting women and youth entrepreneurs in developing countries. Some staff chose to support MEDA by collecting pledges for their participation, and peopleCare owners Brent and Heather Gingerich once again matched kilometers walked with a $10,000 donation.
AR Goudie residents, staff and volunteers on their community walk
Visit peopleCare’s Facebook page to see more highlights of the 2023 Walk to Wellness.
- The Hilltop Manor Hustle was a highlight for residents and staff.
- The AR Goudie LTC crew on their community walk
- Everyone at Delhi LTC enjoyed an afternoon walk and talk with local high school kids
- Tavistock LTC and Oakcrossing LTC Homes started off their walks with a big stretch!
- About 64 Meaford LTC residents enjoyed a stroll to the beautiful harbour with staff, families, volunteers and community members such as the local fire dept.
- Golden Years LTC walkers enjoyed their excursion to the nearby Speed River
- Intergenerational fun at peopleCare Oakcrossing Retirement Living.
Raring to go at Oakcrossing LTC
Learn more
Read Staff Go the Extra Mile to Give Back
Read peopleCare’s 2022 Beyond Ourselves Highlights
