Downtown Doc Walks Off on the Right Foot

Jul 24, 2023

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Participants in Downtown Doc Walks have already accumulated more than half a million steps since Winfield’s free community walking program began in November.

Through a partnership between William Newton Hospital and Winfield Area Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Doc Walks meet-ups occur at 4:00 p.m. on the first Thursday of the month.

Program Coordinator Sarah Johnson, William Newton Hospital’s director of marketing, strategy, and communications, says Downtown Doc Walks has exceeded expectations. Johnson notes walks have averaged 35 participants, though research indicated organizers could expect 15-20.

“We looked at other walking programs, but decidedly took a more collaborative approach,” explains Johnson. “Winfield is a forward-thinking, community-minded area, and the idea of combining local businesses, healthcare, and wellness has really taken off.”

Each walk starts with a quick health talk by a local healthcare provider and is sponsored by a different Winfield Area Chamber of Commerce business. One-mile walks start at the chamber office with a stop at the sponsoring business for a healthy snack and water provided by Coca-Cola Bottling Co. of Winfield.

Last fall, Downtown Doc Walks received start-up assistance from RISE Cowley, and the program is supported in part by William Newton Healthcare Foundation’s Beats Go On community wellness initiative. Beats Go On contributions provide incentives for ongoing participation. On their second walk, participants earn a water bottle. For the fifth walk, a T-shirt is provided. A hat is awarded for the tenth walk. Additionally, the Winfield Area Chamber of Commerce holds a drawing for $20 in chamber checks at each walk.

Downtown Doc Walks recently celebrated its eighth walk in July with a stop at Werner Creek Farm Store, which featured fresh, homemade snacks made from locally grown produce.

“The program brings awareness to downtown businesses, creates a low-barrier opportunity to be active, and offers practical health tips from local experts,” says Johnson.

Downtown Doc Walks welcomes participants of all ages. The event typically lasts under 45 minutes. Brief health talks are presented by local physicians, physician’s assistants, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. Members of the William Newton Hospital Rehabilitation Services team are slated to talk on August 3, with a stop at Strong Fitness on North Main Street.

“Hundreds of people work in the downtown area,” explains Johnson. “Workplaces are encouraged to support staff in taking a late afternoon break to participate. What’s better than good company, a little learning, and free food?”

No pre-registration is necessary. A Facebook group has been created for participants to stay up-to-date about monthly walks. If weather conditions are not conducive to walking, the event will be relocated to the Winfield Recreation Commission gymnasium.

For questions about Downtown Doc Walks, contact Johnson at 620-222-6262.