North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS), together with North Dakota’s Gateway to Science, Bismarck State College and other community partners have organized two family-friendly, health promotion events that are occurring in the Bismarck area this weekend. The Step into Health Walk is Aug. 9, and the second annual Gateway to Health event is Aug. 10 in Bismarck.
Step Into Health Walk
On Friday, Aug. 9, North Dakotans are invited to participate in the Step into Health Walk from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the walking trail by the Tom O’Leary golf course in Bismarck. Parking is available at the VFW Sports Center arena, 1200 N. Washington.
The walk, organized with support from the HHS Youth Advisory Board, aims to remind people that physical activity, setting aside phones and devices, and engaging with others are effective ways to enhance health and well-being.
Walkers can choose the distance that is right for them. There will be turn around points along the 2.3-mile trail allowing for various walk lengths for everyone: a half mile, 1 mile, 1.5 miles, and 2.3 miles.
Proceeds from the voluntary registration fee will be used to pay off lunch debt for students attending Bismarck and Mandan Public Schools. Learn more at bismarckstate.edu/Step-Into-Health.
Gateway to Health Event
On Saturday, Aug. 10, individuals and families can attend the second annual Gateway to Health event, scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at North Dakota’s Gateway to Science, 1600 Canary Ave., in Bismarck.
Participants will enjoy free access to the science center with fun, interactive booths showcasing health and well-being, local resources, games, door prizes and more.
There will be a variety of exhibitors including the Bismarck Aero Center, which has a virtual flight simulator and CHI St. Alexius Health, which will be offering free routine immunizations. Participants can also tour emergency response vehicles and learn hands-only CPR through the American Heart Association to help save lives. Food trucks will also be on site if individuals want to purchase food.
For more information and to preregister for a preferred time slot, visit bismarckstate.edu/gatewaytohealth.