"Walks in the DMV" Wellness Group

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

One of our most active groups is the Wellness group, which continued to provide robust programing, specifically focusing on member's physical health and mental well-being during covid. For example- In May,  Amy Kotkin, the former director of Smithsonian Journeys, provided members with extensive and detailed walking routes in the DC region to encourage members to stay active. Members were excited to get outside to exercise and socialize safely with others while exploring new walking paths in DC. This presentation provided members with great information to take outside of their homes and expand their knowledge of the city as well as improve their physical and mental health.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

The Wellness group meets at least once a month on Zoom and is open to all club members. Although they have many educational programs as well, the programs that focused on ways to be active in their own region were especially popular. For example, Melanie Choukas-Bradley gave an insightful presentation on the Theodore Roosevelt Island that provided inside information on the best ways to explore the island for members of varying physical ability. After making a personal connection with Melanie, many members decided to sign up for her kayaking, bird watching, and walking tours after attending this lecture, improving their physical and mental wellness during Covid.