Battle Ground Senior Citizens (BGSC), a nonprofit dedicated to organizing community events for residents over 50, seeks new members for its recently established Thursday Walkers Group. The club meets at 9:30 a.m. every second and fourth Thursday of the month at Kiwanis Park.
The Thursday Walkers Group started in April to help senior community members socialize while staying active and enjoying the outdoors. BGSC President Sharon Wodtke said Kiwanis Park was chosen because its paved trails are more accessible.
“[The] suggestion was that, because of exercise being important for seniors and mobility being extremely important for seniors, that we try out a walking group,” Wodtke said.
Participants walk 1 to 2 miles on average but are welcome to walk the distance they feel most comfortable, Wodtke said.
Janet Hamilton, a frequent member of the Thursday Walkers Group, said the fresh air and exercise is good for lifting spirits.
“My husband has finally realized that it’s actually good for your attitude,” Hamilton said. “I convinced him to come out and walk with me, and he came back with a better mood.”
The newly established group currently has six to eight frequent members and is looking for new seniors to participate. Seniors don’t have to pay a fee or be members of BGSC to participate, and walkers are encouraged to bring their dogs. The Thursday Walkers Group may organize advanced walks for seniors interested in challenging treks at various parks and trails around Clark County, depending on the interest and capability of new members.
“My favorite part is meeting friends [and] the social [aspect], and meeting dogs since I don’t have one at home,” Hamilton said.
Readers can learn more about the Thursday Walkers Group and other events held by Battle Ground Senior Citizens at facebook.com/battlegroundseniorcitizensinc, or by emailing swodtke@comcast.net.
