Together – Walking:
A versatille activity

This initiative was launched by Monika Hermanns, who works as a health and fitness officer at the Märkischer Kreis e.V. District Sports Association and who, last autumn, launched the project “Ge(h)meinsam – Get active in your neighbourhood”. In collaboration with the City of Iserlohn’s Volunteer Coordination Office and CONTINUE, the volunteer service in Iserlohn, the first step involved seeking and finding so-called walking companions who were interested in volunteering to accompany people on walks. This was followed by numerous planning meetings, an intensive application phase, a successful search for sponsors and, finally, the launch with an official press conference and, initially, four Ge(h)meinsam locations.

The idea is as simple as it is brilliant: exercise brings people together – in more ways than one. A regular walk in the fresh air is a simple way to boost your own health, and the group experience simultaneously strengthens social ties within the neighbourhood. The walk, which lasts around an hour, takes place once a week at the same time throughout the year. Participation is free of charge, no registration is required and everyone is welcome regardless of age, background or gender. The initiative is therefore designed to be accessible to all and is enjoying growing popularity. The walking companions ensure that a suitable route and pace are found for the group and that a friendly atmosphere prevails. To ensure continuous support, each location is looked after by a team of several walking companions, so that both planned absences and last-minute cancellations can be covered.