SOAR launches project

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SOAR, Strategies for Optimal Achievement and Regeneration, is starting a new walking program this summer.

“This program, called the Buddy Brigade, will not only provide mutual support for those of us who haven’t exercised in a while, but we will be walk-training at the scenic Hopkins Park walking trail to participate in several national walkathons in the fall that benefit not only seniors, but the general public as well,” said director Kaiya Marie in a recent news release.

Along with acquiring a Bachelor of Science with a concentration in social science at Indiana University Northwest, Marie recently received a Certificate in Gerontology at Kishwaukee College.

A baby boomer herself, she also struggles with the challenges of incorporating healthy lifestyle changes after an extended period of inactivity.

“It’s so important for us to begin moving our muscles again,” she said. “Starting this program now will not only strengthen us and make the walk easier, but it’s a goal we can achieve. Most of the walks are only two or three miles long which will take no more than an hour to finish. We can do that if we start a walking program now. Starting now will give us an opportunity to enlist sponsors and support from our family, friends and neighbors for our efforts as well.”

Buddy Brigade has registered for walkathons for the National Diabetes Association, the American Heart Association, Alzheimer’s Association and NAMI – National Alliance for the Mentally Ill. All these organizations need contributions to continue medical research, which touches the lives of all community members.

“Disability is no barrier to participation and being a buddy,” Marie said. “There are many volunteer opportunities at the walks, and those who are mobility impaired can just come, wear our (T-shirt) and cheer our team on. I’ve selected various sites for participation including Rockford, Chicago, and Wisconsin. This will give us an opportunity to see some sights and have lunch after we’ve rested up.

“We’d like to have the public contribute on behalf of the Buddy Brigade,” Marie added. “Just go to the web site of your favorite charity for which the Buddy Brigade out of DeKalb is registered, and donate online at their secure site.”

The group is meets at Hopkins Park at 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, weather permitting. Call ahead to verify. Walkathon information, materials and signup will be held at the DeKalb Public Library meeting room at 10 a.m. Friday and at 3 p.m. July 15 at the Sycamore Public Library’s Meeting Room. For more information, call 815-793-8313.