The Warren County Community Assessment Report listed, “Fewer chronic diseases (diabetes, heart disease, cancer, etc.) as a top priority issue. The CDC report for Kentucky shows that 68.5% adults and 38% of children, ages 10-17, are either obese or overweight. The State of Childhood Obesity reported that Adults in Kentucky have one of the highest percentages of physical inactivity, 30.1%. Obesity and lack of physical activity is linked to many chronic diseases. In response to this community need Kristi Shive, Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences in Warren County, developed “Let’s Walk Warren County”. 

Let’s Walk Warren County was a free walking program that encouraged participants to be physically active. The program took place over three months. Kristi organized six group walks at various outdoor paths in Warren County. Program participants were invited to join for group walks and/or walk on their own. Individuals received a free walking log that allowed them to keep track of their progress. 

100 % of participants reported an increase of physical activity since starting the program. 100 % of participants reported positive changes since starting the program including; more energy, decreased stress, lighter mood, weight loss, friendships, and discovered new places to walk in Warren County. Nearly 700,000 miles were walked amongst the group over the three month program. 100 % of individuals plan to continue walking or be physical activity after the program is complete.