Do you feel that your community could be more walkable but you are unsure how you can influence change? The Healthiest State Initiative (HSI) and Active Living Iowa have launched the Iowa Walking College set to begin May 3. The Iowa Walking College is an interactive, online educational program for Iowans interested in making their community more walkable. Iowa is the first state to establish its own platform using the National Walking College program created by America Walks, and HSI is excited to provide this opportunity for community leaders to expand their knowledge and establish a network of support to promote healthy outcomes in Iowa.

The Iowa Walking College will accept 15 applicants who will be learning about ways to improve walkability in their communities. Training will include discussion boards, online material, and face-to-face meetings to encourage interaction among peers and mentors participating in the Walking College. The program requires 6-months of training, where fellows will explore ways to change the health of their individual communities. Along with the various training opportunities, fellows will attend the National Walking Summit in St. Paul, Minnesota in the fall to further explore walkability and gain knowledge from walking experts throughout the country.

This is an exciting opportunity for community leaders and/or community change agents to receive education on ways to impact the health – physically, emotionally, and socially – of their communities and improve overall health outcomes. Individuals who work alone, in organizations, or in professions such as public health, planning, transportation, economic development or education, and are interested in learning more about impacting the health of their communities, are encouraged to apply for the Iowa Walking College!

The Healthiest State Initiative is looking for applicants who are passionate about making their communities more walkable and livable with a vision for what those changes will look like. Fellows will have the opportunity to develop a network of peer mentors and learn to advocate more effectively for community policies and funding to create a more walkable community. Applicants should be prepared to invest up to 10-15 hours per month of personal time and energy into training.

Applications are being accepted now through March 10 with the announcement of Iowa Walking College Fellows by the end of March. Apply to join the Iowa Walking College and receive an educational experience that will encourage you to make a difference in the health of your community!

Visit www.iowahealthieststate.com/iowa-walking-college/ to learn more about the Iowa Walking College and to apply for this unique opportunity.