Girls Who Walk Fond du Lac: A Group to Get Moving, Connect and Build Community

In a world where so much of our connection happens through a screen, one Fond du Lac woman wanted to create an opportunity for women to connect face-to-face. Inspired by her own love of walking and a desire to meet women who shared that interest, she started Girls Who Walk Fond du Lac with the hope of gathering a few women for a walk and perhaps making some lifelong friends. Instead, the group quickly grew, with 10 or more women joining each walk. “Connection is so important and it brings joy and peace to my soul,” she shared. “It has exceeded my hopes!”

While walking offers benefits for both the body and mind, she says the conversations and connections that happen along the way have become one of the most meaningful parts of the experience. Women naturally mingle throughout the walk, meeting new people and discovering shared interests. For some, the group has also made stepping outside their comfort zone a little easier. Having a shared purpose and a welcoming group can take some of the intimidation out of meeting new people. There is also an element of accountability. Knowing other women are expecting you can create something to look forward to and make it a little easier to get those walking shoes on.

As someone who describes herself as an introvert, she understands the nervousness that can come with showing up somewhere new. Yet she says the women who attend have created an environment filled with kindness, laughter and acceptance. You don't have to be especially chatty to participate. You can simply walk, take in the surroundings and find your own rhythm. For anyone who is still hesitant, she even offers to meet newcomers beforehand and be their walking buddy.

Girls Who Walk Fond du Lac isn't ending with summer. Fall walks are already on the horizon, with plans to explore additional trails, and winter may bring snowshoeing and maintained winter trails. The group was inspired in part by Girls Who Walk Milwaukee, which gave her the courage to create something similar in Fond du Lac. What began as one woman's hope for connection has become a growing community where women can move their bodies, meet new people and simply enjoy being together. Sometimes finding balance doesn't require adding more to our lives. It can begin with stepping outside, putting one foot in front of the other, and knowing someone is walking alongside you. August Schedule is set for dates, so if you are looking to join the next walk, follow " Girls Who Walk Fond du Lac" for those dates-