2016 NeighborWalks Kicks off on June 21st: Livable Oregon

by: Elaine Friesen-Strang

Imagine taking a walk in the mid-morning with someone who has pre-planned an interesting, safe stroll through a Portland neighborhood. Imagine learning a few things along the way from a knowledgeable resident who has a special interest in that neighborhood. Imagine walking with others--many of whom you may not know--but who share your curiosity, exercise goals, and delight in making new friends.

Imagine no more! The 2016 NeighborWalks season starts this month!

AARP volunteers and other community partners are offering 10 walks in the Portland area, beginning Tuesday, June 21, 10:00 AM, at the University of Portland. We've planned several walks every month, ending with our last celebration walk on October 15 in Laurelhurst. The walks are 1.5 to 2.5 miles in length and are designed to encourage walkers of all abilities to participate. They will feature points of interest, historical and cultural perspectives, and opportunities for socializing afterwards. Perhaps best of all, they'll get us out and moving, in an atmosphere that is easy going, congenial, and fun.

No need to register, but do arrive 15 minutes early. If it's warm, bring a water bottle, wear some sunscreen. Some gathering sites will have restrooms, but not all, so remember your mother's advice. Back by popular demand is our Passport program: participants who attend all 10 NeighborWalks will receive a surprise giveaway on our final walk. And in true AARP Age-Friendly manner, we welcome people of all ages.
We thank our NeighborWalk collaborators, Portland Bureau of Transportation and Oregon Walks, and of course the great volunteers at AARP who want you to have a good time. We also have a lot of other supporters and partners helping make the 2016 season great: Metro, Know your City and Safe Routes to School National Partnership, APANO, University of Portland, St. John Main Street, Providence and more who are bringing their expertise and knowledge to enrich each walk.

Be sure to check out our full schedule and come walk with us. We'll strengthen our muscles and explore Portland's unique communities together.

See you on Tuesday, June 21st!!