By Marcia Hunt
As social distancing guidelines continued to keep people stuck at home, CNY Folksmarch planned opportunities to get moving.
For the last 30 years, the non-profit, recreational walking group had organized a 5K to 10K walk every month at various locations in the Central New York area.
Since April, on site group walks had been canceled, but Folksmarch continued to organize virtual walks to encourage members to keep going.
Since its start, CNY Folksmarch’s purpose had been getting community members to exercise and explore their community.
“It gives people something to look forward to. The lovely locations motivate people to get out and walk. If people want companionship they can get out and walk with someone-socially distant,” said Adria Ripka, the volunteer publicity coordinator of CNY Folksmarch.
Over the past few months, several posts were made on the group’s social media pages featuring the pictures members took during their monthly walks.
The pictures, which ranged from selfies of socially distant walking buddies to the beautiful sights they saw, kept everyone connected in a time where they had to remain six feet apart.
In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Folksmarch has planned a walking event that allows people to either join the walking event on-site in Manlius or continue to participate virtually.
Ripka said one of the appeals of Folksmarch is that it is a no-pressure, inclusive group, allowing people to join the monthly walks as they please.
“We’re welcome to newcomers, there’s no restrictions on who’s allowed,” said Ripka.
Those who wish to participate are encouraged to purchase the organization’s membership card, called the Annual Passport, but a membership is not required to walk.
First timers walk for free while the fees for returning walkers are $1 for children ages 5 to 18 and $4 for adults.
“We look for parks, villages, and if possible, we try to find locations that are affordable,” said Ripka.
The upcoming walking event will be held Saturday, Sept. 12, from 8 to 11 a.m. and Sunday, Sept. 13, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Mill Run Park in Manlius.
In-person participants can sign in at CNY Folksmarch’s table which will be located at the shelter at the entrance of the park.
Walkers should follow social distancing guidelines as they walk.
For more information, contact CNY Folksmarch via direct message on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter @folksmarch or go to folksmarch.wordpress.com/contact.
